For 30 years or more, Egypt was the strong neighbor in the region, but today the Saudis also see themselves as a central force.

When Obama chose to make his key speech to the Arab and Muslim world on June 4, it was no coincidence that he arrived in Egypt after a visit to Saudi Arabia.

Obama does not necessarily prefer one of these countries to the other, but is pleased to have both of them on board as he tackles the Palestinian issue alongside other regional affairs, first and foremost Iran.

The Americans also want to appear to be engaging these and other Arab countries, but Washington realizes that Egypt plays a key role in the region and therefore Cairo must be included in all discussions on regional developments, said Podeh.

Egypt knows it will have to partner with the Palestinians as they take fresh looks at their internal security questions and incitement against Israel, two key areas Obama said must be addressed. Actually, the Egyptians have already been working closely with the Palestinians on security issues.

Israel was closely watching the Mubarak visit, not only for the Palestinian issue, but also for Iran. Egypt is one of the most vocal opponents of Iran and its nuclear program in the Middle East.

There have been reports in recent months of differences between Washington and Cairo on how to deal with the perceived Iranian threat. "We have also discussed the issue of Iran and the issue of nuclear Iran, and we talked about these issues very frankly," said Mubarak at the conclusion of his meeting with Obama.

"This visit strengthens the understandings between the two countries... on the Iranian question," said Meital. The timing is extremely significant because sometime in September or October the United States is expected to announce what it sees as its future approach to the Iranian question, he added. For that reason, it is very important that Obama has a key Middle-Eastern player on board at this time.

With both the Iranian and Palestinian issues in mind, Obama has made it clear that he values Egypt's input and sees Cairo not just as public relation vehicle for improving American relations with the Muslim world, but as a real partner who can help bring about key changes in the Middle East in line with current American thinking.

(Xinhua News Agency August 21, 2009)