King and Italian President Open Talks

Amman
28 September 2004

His Majesty King Abdullah II held talks with Italian President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi on Tuesdady in Rome focused on the latest developments in the region and the bilateral relations.



"The peace process in the Middle East should be pushed forward and the Palestinians and Israelis should be urged to implement their commitment to achieve a just and comprehensive peace and to put an end to cycle of violence in the region," the King noted, affirming the important role of the EU in this regard.



The talks also touched upon restoring security and stability in Iraq, and enable the Iraqi people to build Iraq and rejoin the international community effectively.



The Italian President expressed appreciation for the efforts exerted by Jordan with Iraqi groups to secure the release of the two Italian hostages, stressing that the King's visit is enhancing the bilateral relations in various scopes.



Ciampi expressed his country's keenness to promote and develop cooperation relations with Jordan, particularly Jordan forges ahead with confidence to boost its national economic process which achieved qualitative accomplishments.



Ciampi praised His Majesty's calls for renouncing violence and terrorism which are internationally appreciated, commending His Majesty efforts to bring development and prosperity to Jordan.