Jordan Times
Sunday, May 23, 2004
TUNIS (Petra) — His Majesty King Abdullah on Saturday discussed with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak ways of coordinating the two countries' stands on the Palestinian issue.
During the meeting, which took place on the sidelines of the Arab summit here, the two leaders stressed the importance of coming up with a clear plan to help the Palestinians overcome the deteriorating situation.
The Palestinians, the leaders said, should be assisted in rebuilding their civil and security institutions, which are severely damaged as a result of the Israeli blockade and the daily acts of aggression.
They also discussed the issues on the summit's agenda, highlighting their keenness to render the summit a success and come up with resolutions that serve Arab solidarity and enhance joint Arab efforts.
His Majesty also held talks with Palestinian Foreign Minister Nabil Shaath and Minister of Negotiation Affairs Saeb Erekat on ways to help the Palestinians build their national institutions. The Monarch underlined the Kingdom's readiness to provide the Palestinian people with all forms of support.
Shaath briefed the King on the outcome of talks Palestinian Prime Minister Ahmad Qureia held with US National Security Advisor Condoleezza Rice in Berlin last week. He expressed appreciation for His Majesty's efforts in establishing channels of communication between the Palestinians and the US administration. Such dialogue, the Palestinian official said, is likely to contribute to reviving the peace process and putting it back on track.
Prime Minster Faisal Fayez, Royal Court Minister Samir Rifai and Foreign Minister Marwan Muasher attended the two meetings.
King Abdullah and the accompanying delegation left Tunis on Saturday after attending the 16th ordinary Arab summit.