During the Group of 20 meeting in Delhi this weekend, US President Joe Biden, Prime Minister Modi, and leaders of Gulf states are expected to unveil a joint infrastructure accord. This project is part of the United States' efforts to counteract China's influence in the area. The objective is to build a railway network connecting Gulf and Arab countries. It would also provide access to India via maritime channels from regional ports.

These negotiations are consistent with the Biden administration's wider Middle East diplomatic initiatives, which include persuading Saudi Arabia to recognize Israel. Furthermore, Israel and Gulf states have explored a US-backed proposal to speed land trade routes between Gulf Arab countries and the Mediterranean Sea. Officials have recognized, however, that there is no set schedule for adopting these modifications.

Earlier this year, Jake Sullivan, Biden's national security advisor, met with Indian and UAE leaders in Saudi Arabia. The discussions focused on prospective areas of collaboration, including as investments in vital infrastructure projects like ports and railroads.

Furthermore, an announcement of the project will very certainly improve the likelihood of a brief bilateral meeting between Biden and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the sidelines of the G20 in Delhi.

The American drive comes as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, both longstanding US allies, have been building ties with China in order to improve connections with fast-rising eastern economies. Last month, these oil-rich Gulf states announced their intention to join the BRICS group of rising market countries, with China taking the lead.