Jordan Times
Thursday, June 17, 2004
King, US lawmakers talk Mideast, bilateral issues
WASHINGTON (Petra) — His Majesty King Abdullah on Tuesday held talks with key US lawmakers on Middle East issues and means to enhance bilateral relations.
King Abdullah discussed at the Congress with
Christopher Cox (R-California), chairman of the Homeland Security Committee and
House Policy Committee means to effectively fight terrorism.
The King said solving the Palestinian issue and achieving comprehensive
development and better living standards in the Middle East would contribute to
the success of anti-terror efforts.
He added that terrorists are taking advantage of the prevailing state of
depression, despair, poverty and unemployment among the youth to carry out their
schemes.
The Monarch also met Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee Bill Young
(R-Largo) and members of the panel for talks on US aid to Jordan — $450 million
this year.
The King told the committee that improving people's living standards will back
the reform process, adding that financial assistance and expertise are essential
to support such a change.
King Abdullah reviewed Jordan's reform plans in the fields of education,
administration, training, higher education and justice. The congressmen
expressed their appreciation for Jordan's efforts in the field, commending the
Kingdom as a model to follow in the Middle East.
Meanwhile, the King met Richard Lugar (R-Indiana), chairman of the Senate
Foreign Relations Committee, for talks on Mideast issues.
King Abdullah stressed the need to implement the roadmap, saying that a just and
sustainable solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a must to achieve
peace and stability in the region.
On Iraqi issue, the Monarch said the new government's success depends on
international support and assistance to help Iraqis take control over their
territories, restore security and rebuild their country.