His Majesty King Abdullah on Tuesday renewed Jordan's support for efforts to realise security and stability in Iraq, impose the government's authority throughout the country and end all forms of violence and terrorism.

At a meeting with Iraqi Vice President Tareq Hashemi, King Abdullah said only the unity and solidarity of Iraqis would help them confront the threats facing their country.

The King underlined the importance of intensifying Arab efforts to support Iraq and open channels of communication to help preserve the country's unity and sovereignty. He added it was important to enhance fruitful cooperation between Iraq and the Arab world.

King Abdullah said Jordan is eager to advance ties between the two countries, especially in the economic, political and commercial fields.

The vice president briefed King Abdullah on the latest political developments in Iraq and efforts to reach a national accord to continue the building of a unified, secure and stable Iraq.

Hashemi said Iraq is witnessing positive changes with regard to entrenching security and stability in all of its areas.

Iraqi troops are cracking down on Al Qaeda in the northern Iraqi town of Mosul, believed to be the last urban bastion of the group. The campaign came in the aftermath of another which targeted the militias of Mahdi Army affiliated with Shiite cleric Moqtada Sadr.

Hashemi also voiced appreciation for Jordan's hosting of Iraqis and for admitting Iraqi students to the Kingdom's schools. Jordan has accepted all Iraqi children in state-run schools, regardless of their residency status. Amman has also responded to an Iraqi request to apply a visa system for Iraqis wishing to enter the Kingdom.

Hashemi, who stressed Iraq's keenness to cement ties with Jordan, said he would meet with a group of Jordanian businesspeople to discuss commercial exchange and investment.

Hashemi, who is currently on a visit to Jordan as part of a tour that will take him to other Arab countries, said Iraq is looking forward to stronger ties with Arab countries at all levels, including the reopening of diplomatic missions. Jordan currently has no ambassador serving in Iraq.

His Royal Highness Prince Ali, Royal Court Chief Bassem Awadallah, Director of the General Intelligence Department Lieutenant General Mohammad Dahabi and Iraqi Ambassador in Amman Saad Hayyani were present at the meeting.