His Majesty King Abdullah II today stressed the importance of maintaining the international momentum in support of the Middle East peace process in order to achieve a Palestinian-Israeli peace agreement before the end of the year that addresses final status issues and leads to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

During a telephone conversation with US President George W. Bush, King Abdullah emphasised the need for the US and all concerned parties to remain engaged in peace efforts to ensure both the Palestinians and Israel commit to agreements reached at the Annapolis conference and the relevant international resolutions.

The King said the conference and the ensuing visit by President Bush to the region provided a significant opportunity to launch negotiations that should be based on clear mechanisms, within a specified timeframe.

King Abdullah said Israel must refrain from unilateral actions, including the imposition of economic siege and escalation of military operations against the Palestinian people. These policies, he said, threaten to undermine efforts made over the past weeks and months to advance the peace process.

The two leaders also discussed bilateral issues and the development of ties in several fields. The King expressed appreciation for US assistance to Jordan that supports its development and economic growth.