Jordan Times
Thursday, June 10, 2004
During talks with G-8 leaders at their summit here, King Abdullah said Jordan appreciates that the most industrialised nations understand that Mideast reforms must come from within. In remarks at the summit, the King added that Arabs agree on the need for reforms and modernisation of their countries in political, economic and social aspects, citing the document adopted by the Arab leaders in Tunis last month.
King Abdullah urged G-8 leaders to be committed to an increase in the financial and technical aid to help the region go ahead with reforms.
He said the success of international initiatives to back reforms of regional countries depends on the achievement of sustainable development, better living standards and job opportunities for the youth.
In addition, the Monarch added, a solution to the Arab-Israeli conflict, justice and peace for the Palestinian people, a free and stable Iraq are essential elements for the Middle East's stability and the creation of a positive climate for reforms.
On the sidelines of the summit, King Abdullah held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Iraqi President Sheikh Ghazi Yawar, Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi and Italian Premier Silvio Berlusconi.