News: New Saudi King's speech + Obama offers condolences on King Abdullah's death

 Saudi Arabia King Salman vowed on Friday to maintain the same approach as his predecessors in the first address to the nation since he ascended the throne.

"We will remain, with God's support, maintain the straight path that this country has advanced on since its establishment by the late King Abdulaziz," King Salman said in the speech, broadcast on state television.
He also called for the unity and solidarity of the Muslim and Arab countries and pledged to serve his country and shield it from any harm.

Vice President Joe Biden will lead a U.S. delegation to Saudi Arabia in the coming days to pay respects to the family of deceased King Abdullah, the White House announced.

The announcement Thursday came shortly after President Barack Obama expressed condolences and offered sympathy to the people of Saudi Arabia upon the death of the king, an important ally and a major force in the Muslim world.
Obama, who visited with the ailing king in his desert compound last March, praised Abdullah for taking "bold steps" in advancing the Arab Peace Initiative. In a statement, Obama credited the 90-year-old king for being dedicated to the education of his people and for greater outreach to the international community.