Washington - The U.S., Saudi Arabia, India and other nations are discussing a possible infrastructure deal that could reconfigure trade between the Gulf and South Asia, linking Middle Eastern countries by railways and connecting to India by port, according to U.S. officials aware of the conversations.

The conversations have been underway for months but are fluid, one of the people said.

U.S. President Joe Biden met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and also had talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The plans for a sweeping, multi-national ports and rail deal would come at a critical time. To counter China’s Belt and Road global infrastructure push, Biden pitched Washington as an alternative partner and investor in developing countries at the G20, especially in the Indo-Pacific region.

It also comes as the Biden administration seeks a broader diplomatic deal in the Middle East that would have Saudi Arabia recognize Israel. 

Beyond the diplomatic implications, officials said they hope such an infrastructure deal could reduce shipping times, cost, the use of diesel and make trade faster and cheaper.

Saudi Arabia will also participate in an investment forum.