His Majesty King Abdullah II today held talks with US Defense Secretary Robert Gates, who is on a visit to the Kingdom.

Their discussions focused on bilateral relations, particularly in the field of defense, and political developments in the Middle East.

During the meeting, King Abdullah stressed to the defense secretary the importance of advancing peace in the region in accordance with a two-state solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. He said that the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians remains the core conflict in the region and that international and regional actors should make the establishment of an independent Palestinian state a priority in order to realize regional peace and stability.

The King stressed the need to support the Arab Peace Initiative which he said reflects the Arab will to establish peace with Israel and end decades of Arab-Israeli conflict.

He also reviewed the situation in Iraq and the efforts exerted to foster security and end the cycle of violence.

King Abdullah expressed his conviction that the inclusion of all Iraqis in the political process was the only guarantee of a better future for the country.

Gates expressed appreciation for Jordan's continued efforts to achieve peace and stability in the Middle East, saying that King Abdullah is a prominent regional voice in the constant defense of peace.