His Majesty King Abdullah on Friday met with the US House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee, led by Ed Royce, as well as leaders of the US House of Representatives and discussed bilateral ties, regional developments, especially the Syrian crisis, as well as efforts to realise peace between the Palestinians and Israelis based on the two-state solution.
King Abdullah addressed the regional repercussions of the Syrian crisis, stressing the need for a comprehensive and transitional political solution to put an end to the bloodshed, stop the suffering of the Syrian people and guarantee their unity.
Urging the international community to shoulder its responsibilities towards the refugees’ plight, His Majesty said Jordan has received more than 500,000 Syrian refugees, placing heavy burdens on its limited resources.
The King said the Palestinian cause remains the crux of the conflict in the Middle East, stressing the need to find a just and comprehensive solution that ends the suffering of the Palestinian people.
His Majesty stressed the US role in efforts to revive peace negotiations between Palestinians and Israelis and establish an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders based on the two-state solution.
His Majesty referred to the ongoing process of reform in the Kingdom to reinforce democracy and enhance participation in decision-making.
Congress leaders praised the King's reform and peace efforts. They noted that Jordan is an important strategic partner for the US, voicing keenness on enhancing bilateral relations. They also commended Jordan's efforts to host Syrian refugees, stressing the importance of international support for the Kingdom.