King holds talks with Spanish prime minister

16 October 2009
Amman , Jordan

His Majesty King Abdullah held talks on Friday with Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero focused on developments in the occupied Palestinian territories and efforts to resolve the Palestinian-Israeli conflict within a regional context.

Jerusalem is a “red line” and any attempts to alter the city will have “disastrous repercussions” on the region's security and stability, King Abdullah said.

The King added that unilateral Israeli measures are unacceptable, warning against acts that undermine peace efforts.

There is a need for a clear international position against unilateral Israeli actions, King Abdullah said, urging the international community and the EU in particular to act firmly against Israeli measures aimed at altering the identity of Jerusalem and threatening its holy sites.

Discussions also covered means to foster bilateral ties between Jordan and the EU, of which Spain will assume the rotating presidency in January next year.

The King and the Spanish premier also reviewed the latest efforts to launch Palestinian-Israeli negotiations based on the relevant terms of reference building upon what has been realised in previous talks.

King Abdullah underlined the need for coordinated, intensive international efforts to re-start peace negotiations and ensure their success as a matter of regional and international necessity.

He said he valued the EU's role in ending regional conflicts, adding that Jordan is looking forward to working with Spain to further accelerate efforts to end the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

The King also voiced appreciation for Spain's support for Jordan's development, highlighting opportunities in the Kingdom for Spanish investment and enhancing cooperation between the private sectors in both countries.

Zapatero left Amman after a several-hour stop as part of his regional tour.