Jordan Times
Sunday, March 14, 1999
King meets U.S. Jewish group, Maldives president
AQABA (Petra) — His Majesty King Abdullah on Saturday called on peace-loving nations and groups to join efforts to reach a comprehensive Middle East peace, for which the late King Hussein dedicated his life.
Addressing a group representing the New York-based American Jewish Committee, who came to offer condolences on the passing of the late Monarch, King Abdullah said efforts to achieve peace should not be confined to governments but rather involve all concerned groups.
Paying tribute to the American Jewish Committee's efforts over the past years to achieve peace, King Abdullah said Jordan seeks a comprehensive and just peace that can restore legitimate rights, which is a prerequisite for security, stability, development and prosperity for all the peoples of this region.
King Abdullah said Jordan is currently focusing attention on reforming its national economy and hopes that the world community will help it overcome the present difficulties and obstacles in its path toward achieving a better life for the present and coming generations.
At the meeting, which was attended by Royal Court Chief Abdul Karim Kabariti and Foreign Minister Abdul Ilah Khatib, discussion covered the current status of the Middle East peace process.
King Abdullah thanked the American Jewish group for its plans to organise a special ceremony in memory of the late King Hussein.
Delegation representatives paid tribute to the late King's efforts for peace, saying that they were confident that King Abdullah will follow in King Hussein's footsteps towards the attainment of the same goal.
Also Saturday, King Abdullah received the president of the Republic of Maldives, Ma'moun Abdul Quieoum, who offered condolences on the passing of the late King and paid tribute to his contributions to the Islamic Nation's causes.
The two leaders reviewed bilateral relations and cooperation in cultural and tourist fields.
The Maldives president said his country is keen on promoting ties with Jordan in all fields.
Prime Minister Abdur-Ra'uf S. Rawabdeh voiced Jordan's appreciation of the Maldives president's solidarity with Jordan. He said Jordan will seek to bolster bilateral relations further.
The Maldives president visited the grave of King Hussein, where he placed a wreath and recited verses of the Holy Koran.