His Majesty King Abdullah on Monday met with US Secretary of Defence Robert Gates to discuss bilateral cooperation, particularly in military fields.

King Abdullah also met with EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton to discuss the EU’s role in supporting Middle East peace efforts. The two also discussed Jordan’s role in preserving stability in the region, and Jordan’s relations with the EU in light of its advanced status.

Ashton commended Jordan’s efforts to advance the peace process and the measures taken locally towards political, economic and social reform.

The King also discussed bilateral ties and peace efforts with Senator Gary Ackerman, chairman of the US Senate’s Middle East and South Africa Sub-committee.