Jordan Times
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Khatib calls for concerted
efforts ahead of conference
NEW YORK (Petra) - Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdul Ilah Khatib on Monday
stressed the need for genuine progress between the Palestinians and Israelis and
intensified international efforts ahead of the international Middle East peace
conference.
During an iftar banquet for the Arab Peace Initiative committee at UN
headquarters, Khatib stressed the need for proper preparation for the
US-sponsored meeting, expected in the fall, to achieve the aspired goals to
launch serious negotiations between the two sides, leading to the establishment
of an independent and viable Palestinian state within a specific time frame.
Khatib also called for supporting efforts to bring about peace and stability in
Iraq, underscoring the importance of preserving its territorial integrity to
maintain stability and balance in the region.
During the meeting, the minister stressed Jordan’s support for UN Resolution
1770 and the need to give the UN a central role in Iraq.
He referred to the Kingdom’s efforts to help Iraqis residing in the country,
noting that Jordan shoulders large financial burdens and has not received
assistance from the international community so far.
Also Monday, Khatib met with Canadian Foreign Minister Peter Mackay and
discussed bilateral ties and Jordan’s debt, as Canada is a member of the G-8.
Mackay stressed his government’s support for Jordan’s efforts to reduce its
debt.
Khatib also took part in a meeting on Iraq at the Security Council last Saturday
that was attended by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, Iraqi Prime Minister
Nouri Maliki and representatives of international and economic organisations.