His Majesty King Abdullah on Monday reiterated that establishing an independent Palestinian state was a top Jordanian priority.

King Abdullah told former prime ministers as well as political and media leaders at a meeting that his talks with US President George W. Bush and senior administration officials focused on the importance of reviving the Middle East peace process, which should lead to the establishment of a viable Palestinian state.

The King said he sensed a US commitment to relaunch the peace process in line with a two-state solution. His Majesty said Washington was also committed to supporting Jordan.

Reiterating that Jordan seeks to help Palestinians build their state, King Abdullah warned that Israel will never enjoy peace and security unless the Palestinian problem is resolved.

The King also added that Arab countries, particularly moderates, should unify a position to back peace, saying the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative was not promoted in the West, or seriously dealt with by Israel.

King Abdullah said Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and other Arab countries were trying to find a mechanism to support the Palestinian economy.

Agencies