Islamabad (1 November 2007) - His Majesty King Abdullah on Thursday said Jordan is keen to conclude as soon as possible a free trade agreement with Pakistan.

During talks with Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf, King Abdullah called for the acceleration of efforts to sign the deal with Pakistan as part of efforts to enhance bilateral relations in various fields.

King Abdullah arrived in Pakistan on a several-hour visit, the third leg of a tour that also included Bahrain and China.

His Majesty arrived home later Thursday.

King Abdullah and Musharraf discussed in bilateral relations in the economic, trade, investment, scientific and cultural arenas and the potential to expand relations in these fields.

King Abdullah and Musharraf also discussed further cooperation between Amman and Islamabad within the context of the Lower-Middle Income Countries Initiative (G-11).

The two leaders stressed the need for member countries to coordinate efforts and use speak in one voice in their dealings with the developed nations of the G-8.

Meanwhile, King Abdullah stressed Jordan's support for Pakistan's anti-terror drive.

The King briefed Musharraf on political developments in the Middle East, especially efforts to advance the peace process towards a just and permanent peaceful solution to the Palestinian issue. Such a solution, he reiterated, should be based on international resolutions and the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative.

In this regard, King Abdullah stressed the importance of Pakistan's role and that of other Islamic countries in backing Middle East peace efforts as preparations get underway for the US-proposed Annapolis peace meeting, expected before the end of the year.

King Abdullah described the upcoming event as an important opportunity to work out permanent solutions to final status issues and the creation of an independent Palestinian state.

During the talks, which continued over a lunch banquet, the King and Musharraf also agreed to continue coordination and consultation on issues of concern to the Islamic world to develop a common approach that serves Muslims and enhances their role in the international arena.

Talks between King Abdullah and Musharraf also covered the situation in Iraq. They stressed their support for efforts to restore the country's stability and security, preserve its unity and end the suffering of the Iraqis.

On the Iranian nuclear programme, the two leaders said the standoff can only be solved through diplomacy and dialogue.