The meeting, their first, is an opportunity for King Abdullah to explain to Obama the reality of the Arab issues and concerns, said Shoura Council member Sadaqa Fadel.
For Obama, it will be a chance to acquaint himself with Arab hopes and aspirations, what the Arab exactly want from the United States and what the Arabs can give America, Fadel said.
The Obama administration views the Kingdom as an important strategic partner and a “safety valve” in the region because of its positive and moderate policies and commitment to peace and coexistence in the world, a US State Department source said.
Senior Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erakat said the new US administration “is fully aware of the Kingdom’s heavy weight regionally and internationally.”
“President Obama has shown positive signs toward Arab and Islamic issues and is expected to carefully listen to King Abdullah,” Erakat said. “Doubtless, King Abdullah would urge President Obama to find a just, lasting and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue because King Abdullah is the best person to represent the Ummah at this (G20) summit.” King Abdullah will also hold talks with the other G-20 leaders, focusing on the Middle East, the sources said.
