His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday asserted that the Jordanian citizen is at the heart of the country’s comprehensive reform process, which he described as a strategic plan that requires the engagement of all.

During a meeting at Al Husseiniya Palace with members of the National Action Front bloc of the Lower House, King Abdullah stressed the need to endorse pieces of legislation pertaining to reforms and economy-related laws, which he said are a top priority.

In order to activate the role of the parliamentary blocs, Lower House performance should be constantly assessed and developed, and programmes that help draw up effective policies and contribute to the building of Jordan should be advanced, in cooperation with the executive authority, His Majesty told the gathering.

During the meeting, attended by Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour and Royal Court Chief Fayez Tarawneh, the King stressed the importance of fostering partnerships among the three branches of power to deal effectively with various challenges and boost the country’s drive towards reform.

His Majesty emphasised that the economic situation and challenges facing the Kingdom are top priorities, highlighting the need for continued cooperation with all concerned parties to alleviate economic pressures and improve the living conditions of citizens.

Discussions also addressed other public interest issues, in addition to the latest developments at the Arab and regional levels, especially those pertaining to the Middle East peace process and the crisis in Syria.

Regarding the peace process, the King affirmed that Jordan has ongoing contacts with various relevant parties, and is constantly kept abreast of details related to the peace negotiations under way between Palestine and Israel, in a manner that safeguards the Kingdom’s national interests.

The bloc members lauded His Majesty’s openness and his meetings with Lower House members and commended the King’s support to the reform process and his foreign policy, which they said has helped preserve Jordan’s national interests.

The National Action Front bloc is comprised of 19 deputies and is chaired by MP Abdul Hadi Majali.