His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday urged the U.S. to continue its support for the Middle East peace process during a meeting with US Vice President Dick Cheney.



The King told Cheney that Israel's recent withdrawal from the Gaza Strip was an “achievement” in Palestinian-Israeli peace-making that should be followed by other withdrawals from the West Bank in line with the roadmap. He added that international support to the Palestinian National Authority was central to ensuring security and stability, as well as reviving the beleaguered Palestinian economy, especially in Gaza, which has high rates of unemployment and poverty.



The King, who agreed with Cheney on the need to enhance relations between Amman and Washington, said he appreciated American assistance in support of Jordan's development programs.



King Abdullah also held similar talks with US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. The Monarch and Rice discussed means to politically and economically back the PNA to carry out its duties. Their talks also covered the situation in Iraq and bilateral ties.



Also on Wednesday, King Abdullah met with Senate Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Richard Lugar (R-Illinois) and members of the committee, House Speaker J. Dennis Hastert (R-Illinois), House Appropriations Committee Chair Jerry Lewis (R-California) and committee members, House Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-Texas), Senator John Kerry (D-Massachusetts) and Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vermont).



During his talks with the congressmen, the Monarch reviewed Jordan's efforts to support the political process in Iraq, stressing that Iraq's success in restoring security and stability is vital to the entire region.



The King also discussed the challenges that rising international oil prices pose to Jordan.