His Majesty King Abdullah held talks in Beijing with Chinese President, Chi Jin-ping, on the second day of a working visit as Jordan seeks to forge closer economic and political ties with China.

The talks, held at the Great Hall of the People in the Chinese capital, also dealt with current developments in the Middle East and other international issues.

During a one-on-one meeting, followed by an expanded session attended by top officials from the two countries, the two leaders expressed their interest in further expanding cooperation in economic, military and commercial fields.

The Chinese leader said Jordan and China in their successful relations offered a model to Middle Eastern nations, noting that the two countries will sign more agreements that will further advance cooperation.

King Abdullah expressed hope that the two countries declaration today would be a new page in their fruitful cooperation, particularly in economic fields.

In the Chinese city of Yin-chuan, the King will attend the inauguration of the 2015 China-Arab States Expo, in which Jordan is taking part as the guest of honour.

The Chinese president called Jordan “a friend and important partner of his country”, and commended the King’s efforts to enhance ties. He said the signing of the strategic partnership would pave the ground for a new era in relations.

In their discussion of the Middle East, the leaders talked about the fight against terrorism and extremism within a holistic approach and a partnership with all influential parties.

The Chinese president praised Jordan’s efforts in the war against terrorist organisations, emphasising Beijing’s support of the Kingdom in addressing the refugee crisis and strengthening its resources in this regard.

The two leaders agreed that a political solution to the Syrian crisis should be found.

The leaders also discussed reviving Palestinian-Israeli peace negotiations based on the two-state solution.

Ministers from both sides reviewed projects and investment opportunities and scopes for economic cooperation.

A joint statement issued after the summit said the two leaders signed a strategic partnership, and expressed their readiness to further enhance relations to achieve the countries’ common interests.

The statement said the two sides agreed to pursue close coordination in a wide range of fields and support each other’s vital interests, including Jordan’s recognition that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China.

It said the Chinese side would support Jordan’s security and stability and enhance the Kingdom’s socio-economic development process.