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U.S. President Barack Obama is on his way to Riyadh for talks with Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah. It is the first stop on a trip that will also include a major speech in Egypt, and ceremonies in France commemorating the allied invasion that turned the tide of World War II.
The highlight of the trip will come on Thursday, when the president will deliver his much awaited speech to the world's Muslims from Cairo.
But before he goes to the Egyptian capital, he is stopping in Riyadh for a private meeting with the Saudi King.
They will consult at King Abdullah's farm, where the president will remain for the night.
White House press secretary Robert Gibbs predicts a full agenda for the talks, including the Middle East peace process, and concerns over Iran's nuclear ambitions.
Rising oil prices are also likely to be discussed, along with President Obama's plans to reduce America's reliance on foreign suppliers.
During a recent session with reporters, Mr. Obama said he will be candid with the Saudi monarch.
"I'll be very honest with King Abdullah with whom I have developed a good relationship, indicating to him that we're not going to be eliminating our need for oil imports in the immediate future; that's not our goal," said President Obama. "What our goal has to be is to advance the clean energy solutions in this