US State Secy Blinken to visit Saudi Arabia on April 29

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is scheduled to begin his visit to Saudi Arabia on April 29 to engage with regional allies. According to a statement from the US State Department, Blinken’s two-day trip will focus on ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza, ensuring the release of hostages, with a particular emphasis on Hamas’s role in obstructing peace.

Additionally, Blinken will address the recent uptick in humanitarian aid to Gaza, underscoring the necessity of maintaining this assistance. He will stress the importance of containing the conflict and pursuing lasting peace and security in the area, including advancing the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with safeguards for Israel’s security.

During his visit, Blinken will take part in a ministerial meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council to bolster collaboration on regional security.

Furthermore, Blinken will attend the World Economic Forum’s special meeting on Global Collaboration, Growth, and Energy for Development, where he will work with partners to sustain progress in combating climate change and advancing the global energy transition.

Riyadh is hosting the two-day Special Meeting, which will assemble over 1,000 global leaders, including heads of state, government officials, and influential figures from various sectors, to address urgent global development issues.

Last week, the Senate finally passed a $95 billion aid package intended to support Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, as reported by CNN.