Biden Greets Saudi Crown Prince With Handshake After Past Controversy
- Biden warmly greeted Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman with a handshake at the G20 summit in New Delhi, a contrast from their awkward fist bump last year.
- The friendly gesture drew criticism as Biden had previously vowed to make Saudi Arabia a "pariah" over human rights abuses tied to the prince, including the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
- The leaders announced a rail and shipping corridor connecting India, the Middle East and Europe, with Saudi Arabia pledging a $20 billion investment.
- While seeking a Saudi-Israel peace deal, Biden's conciliatory approach aims to advance US interests on issues like oil, Iran's nuclear program and regional stability.
- Despite ongoing tensions, the White House argues engagement with Saudi leadership remains crucial for security and economic interests.