Abdullah II Discusses Jordanian-British Ties

His Majesty King Abdullah II reviewed with a delegation representing the British House of Common and House of Lords, Jordan's efforts to achieve reform, regional developments as well as Jordanian-British ties. The King told the delegation that Jordan is pressing ahead with reform and development programs and plans and enhancing democracy through expanding public participation in political life and decision making as well as promoting the role of women and youth.

His Majesty also highlighted Jordan's efforts to bring about comprehensive political, economic and social reforms as well as steps taken in this regard, mainly the constitutional amendments and laws regulating political life. He also stressed the importance of turning popular demands into effective political, economic and social programs within a constitutional frame in which parties and civil society institutions play their role in adopting these demands.

On Middle East peace, His Majesty stressed the need for concerted international efforts to create an appropriate climate to ensure the return of Palestinians and Israelis to the negotiating table to discuss final status issues, leading to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. At the meeting, which was attended by Director of the King'sOffice Imad Fakhoury and the British Ambassador to Jordan Peter Millet, the King also discussed with the delegation the latest developments in the region, mainly developments in Syria. The King said that Jordan is working to find a solution to the Syrian crisis within the Arab consensus and supports mission of the UN -Arab League peace envoy Kofi Annan. Members of the delegation voiced appreciation of the King's efforts to achieve reforms, adding that Britain back these efforts. They also hailed the King's efforts to bring about security, stability and peace in the Middle East.