Monarch discusses regional, bilateral issues with Cheney, Rice
WASHINGTON (Petra) -- His Majesty King Abdullah is to meet today at the White House with US President George W. Bush for talks on the peace process after the Gaza pullout, Iraq and bilateral ties.
On Wednesday, King Abdullah told US Vice President Dick Cheney at a meeting that Washington should continue its support for the peace process.
Describing the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza as an "achievement," the King said it should be followed by other withdrawals from the West Bank in line with the roadmap.
The King reiterated Jordan's call for international support to help the Palestinian Authority (PA) ensure security and stability as well as revive the economy, particularly in Gaza, which has high rates of unemployment and poverty.
The King, who agreed with Cheney on the need to enhance relations between Amman and Washington, said he appreciated US' assistance to help Jordan implement development programmes.
King Abdullah also held similar talks with US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. The Monarch and Rice discussed means to politically and economically back the PA to carry out its duties.
Talks also covered the situation in Iraq and bilateral ties.
Also yesterday, King Abdullah met with Senate Foreign Affairs Committee chair Richard Lugar (R-Illinois) and members of his committee, House Speaker J. Dennis Hastert (R-Illinois), House Appropriations Committee chair Jerry Lewis (R-California) and members of the committee, House Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-Texas), Senator John Kerry (D-Massachusetts) and Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vermont).
During the talks, the Monarch reviewed Jordan's efforts to back Iraq's political process, stressing that the country's success in restoring security and stability is vital to the entire region.
The King also spoke about Jordan's challenges posed by the rise in international oil prices.
Meanwhile, King Abdullah yesterday urged courageous steps towards tolerance and conciliation and called for continued efforts to achieve peace, justice and respect among the followers of the three monotheistic faiths.
He made his remarks during a meeting with Jewish American leaders -- the latest by the King with interfaith groups in the US to spread moderation.
The Monarch said achieving peace in the region will end the suffering of its peoples, create prosperity and progress.
He said the key challenge the Middle East faces is creating jobs for the youth, underlining the importance of reforming education and promoting dialogue.
Jordan Times 2005
