Abdullah II Discusses Ties, Mideast with British PM

His Majesty King Abdullah discussed with British Prime Minister David Cameron Jordanian-British ties, the latest developments in the Middle East as well as challenges facing the region. At the meeting, which was attended by Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour, the King and Cameron voiced their keenness to forge closer cooperation in various fields for the interest of both countries. On the situation in Syria, the two sides called for an end to violence and bloodshed in the neighbouring country and stressed the urgent need for a solution that puts an end to the suffering of the Syrian people. The King affirmed the need to preserve the unity of Syrian and its people and warned of the catastrophic ramifications of the Syrian crisis on the whole region. The British prime minister expressed understanding of the situation on Jordan's northern borders and pledged his country's commitment to the security and stability of Jordan. He also hailed Jordan for hosting more than 236,000 Syrian refugees, adding that he is aware of the addition burden they place on the Kingdom's economy.

Cameron announced during a visit to the Zaatari camp for Syrian refugees in Mafraq today. 14 million pounds in aid to Jordan to help it in performing its humanitarian role towards the Syrian refugees. Talks during the meeting also dealt with efforts to bring about peace in the Middle East. The King and Cameron agreed on the need to revive efforts to solve the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and urged all parties to abide by the two-state solution. They also highlighted the need for an agreement on issues of concern to Jordan such as security, borders, refugees,water and Jerusalem. At the meeting, which was attended by Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh and Director of the King's Office Imad Fakhoury, the King reviewed reforms that have been achieved by Jordan in various fields. The King said the coming years will be important in the political history of Jordan as they will witness the formation of parliamentary governments which will draw up policies to overcome social and economic challenges.

The British prime minister hailed His Majesty's efforts to push Jordan's reform process forward and pledged his country's support to the King's vision on building democracy based on pluralism. He said the United Kingdom is ready to support Jordan in implementing its political and economic reform program. The British prime minister announced the appointment of Baroness Morris of Bolton as a trade representative of the UK to Jordan to help further develop trade and economic ties between the two countries. The King held, the presence of Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah, a lunch banquet in honor of the British prime minister who concluded a two-day visit to the Kingdom.