His Majesty King Abdullah on Sunday called for spreading the value of tolerance as the foundation of dialogue and understanding among followers of various religions.

During a meeting with Grand Master of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem Cardinal Edwin Frederick O’Brien, King Abdullah stressed that Jordan will remain a model of interfaith harmony and continue to work for the common denominators among different religions.

O’Brien conveyed greetings from Pope Benedict XVI to the King as well as his appreciation of His Majesty’s efforts to enhance security and stability in the Middle East, protect religious freedoms and the rights of minorities, and preserve Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.

Voicing concern over Israel’s unilateral measures in Jerusalem that target Islamic and Christian holy sites, and the suffering of Palestinians in the old city due to these measures, His Majesty highlighted the need for concerted efforts to put an end to these actions.

The cardinal also voiced appreciation for the King’s support for dialogue and enhancing common values among various religions and cultures.

He commended His Majesty’s efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region and Jordan’s role in promoting tolerance and coexistence between followers of Islam and Christianity.