Mr. Lippman talked about his book, Inside the Mirage: America’s Fragile Partnership with Saudi Arabia, published by Westview Press. In the book, the author examines the history of U.S.-Saudi Arabia relations from the 1930's to the present. He also addresses Osama bin Laden’s charge that the United States has colonized Saudi Arabia to obtain oil. Mr. Lippman argues that this accusation is false, and presents his case that the U.S.-Saudi relationship has been mutually beneficial. Following prepared remarks, he responded to questions from the audience.