His Majesty King Abdullah, speaking in New York on Monday, stressed that Jordan has adopted a gradual approach to reform, building on what has been achieved and moving forward to an advanced stage of political, economic and social reform.
King Abdullah made the remarks as he met in New York with a group of US political, media, intellectual and academic figures on the sidelines of his participation in the 68th session of the United Nation General Assembly.
The King reiterated that the reform process in Jordan is based upon major achievements, some of which have been completed while others are ongoing. His Majesty stressed that Jordan is distinguished by its citizens, who set an example in giving to and building the homeland.
The King added that Middle East challenges should not be an excuse to slow down the reform process, which Jordan adopted as a way of life.
His Majesty said the Arab Spring served as a catalyst for faster reform and an opportunity that should be enthusiastically seized to fulfill the ambitions and aspirations of the peoples in the region.
"Jordan was a model in its ability to turn challenges into opportunities and invest its limited resources to boost its national achievements for the better of its people," the King said.
Regarding the Middle East, His Majesty said the situation in Syria will have long-lasting repercussions on the region, urging Arab countries and the international community to double efforts to end the suffering of the Syrian people and help them overcome the disastrous impacts of the spiralling crisis.
Jordan, the King added, will continue to provide humanitarian aid and relief to Syrian refugees. The world, however, must support the Kingdom and help it continue providing services for the refugees.
Addressing the Middle East peace process, His Majesty said Jordan backs a just, comprehensive and lasting peace that meets the aspirations of the Palestinian people for independent statehood on their national soil, based on the 1967 lines and with East Jerusalem as their capital.
“A Palestinian state is a top Jordanian interest,” the King told the US figures. Meanwhile, he urged Israel to realise that peace is the only guarantor of security and stability.
On Egypt, His Majesty said Jordan will always support the choices of the Egyptian people, stressing the Kingdom's sincerity in supporting Egypt’s security and stability, while helping it restore its regional role at various levels.
The meeting in New York was attended by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II and a number of Jordanian officials.