The leaders of the US, India, Saudi Arabia and other countries in Asia are in talks on a possible infrastructure deal involving railroads and ships, Reuters reported on Friday.
Biden's government wants to finish its diplomatic push for a mega-deal with Saudi Arabia that could include a normalization agreement between the kingdom and Israel before the 2024 campaign consumes Biden's agenda.
Axios said the project would link Arab countries in the Levant and the Gulf via a network of railways that will also link to India through seaports in the Gulf.
The idea for this new initiative came up during talks held in another forum called I2U2, which includes the US, Israel, the UAE and India, Axios cites two sources.
The forum was set up in late 2021 to discuss strategic infrastructure projects in the Middle East and act as a counterweight to Beijing's growing influence in the region.
Israel raised the idea of connecting the region via railways during I2U2 meetings last year. The idea is to use India's engineering expertise for such large infrastructure projects, a source said.
The Biden administration then expanded on the idea to include Saudi Arabia's participation, Axois said.
7 Comments
Tyutyunya
The construction of railways and ports could have detrimental effects on the environment, including habitat destruction and increased carbon emissions.
marshal
The Biden administration's focus on this mega-deal may indicate a prioritization of foreign interests over domestic priorities and the needs of the American people.
Tyutyunya
The involvement of big corporations in infrastructure projects could lead to monopolistic control, limiting competition and potentially exploiting consumers.
marshal
The article does not provide details about the specific benefits or advantages of the infrastructure deal, making it difficult to assess its potential positive impacts.
GENA CR
A well-connected transportation network can enhance mobility and reduce travel time, benefiting both businesses and individuals.
Mariposa
The focus on connecting Arab countries via railways and ports may benefit large corporations and elites but could have negative consequences for local economies and communities.
Muchacha
Such a mega-deal involving multiple countries and massive infrastructure projects raises questions about the economic viability and potential financial burden.