His Majesty King Abdullah II on Friday met with the Supreme Advisor of Japan Democratic Party Tsutomu Hata, with whom he discussed Japan's role in establishing stability in the Middle East and in building a unified and stable Iraq. The King said that the people of the region appreciate Japan's support to the peace process and its financial assistance which helps improve the living standard of citizens. Hata acknowledged Jordan's central role in realizing security and stability in the Middle East.



Also on Friday, King Abdullah stressed the importance of continuing the peace process following Israel's withdrawal from Gaza and improving the economic and social conditions of Palsetinians. In an interview with the NHK TV channel in Tokyo, the King said a commitment to the implementation of the roadmap would help maintain hope among the majority of Palestinians and Israelis seeking peace and stability. He said Japan played an important role in helping reduce the rates of poverty and unemployment among Palestinians.



During the interview, King Abdullah also expressed hope that all Iraqis would take part in the elections on Dec. 15. He said Japan was contributing to the rebuilding of Iraq, adding that Jordan's location could facilitate Japan's work in this area.



Replying to a question on the terrorist attacks in Amman on Nov. 9, the King said that the attacks showed that Jordanians are united against terrorism. He added that terrorism is an international phenomenon from which all nations suffer, and that it is a challenge that is not exclusive to Islam. ''This problem is within the Islamic community, not in Islam, between the moderate majority and a minority that adheres to takfiri thought,'' the King added. The King said continually reaffirming the true principles of Islam - which rejects wanton killing - is the key to confronting the threat of terrorism.