His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday called for the formation of task forces from Arab and Islamic countries to help the US in realising peace.

King Abdullah made his remarks after a meeting with Speaker of the US House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi Wednesday in joint statements to the press.

The King said: "We are ready to shoulder our responsibilities." He added that the US has shouldered heavy burdens for many years.

At the meeting, also attended by Her Majesty Queen Rania, King Abdullah and Pelosi discussed efforts to revive the peace process and bring about stability and security in the Middle East.

The King said the region is passing through a critical stage that should be overcome by launching serious and speedy negotiations to resolve the Palestinian-Israeli conflict in accordance with the two-state solution and within the context of a comprehensive regional movement

Referring to the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative, King Abdullah said it represents a historic opportunity to make peace in the region.

Discussions with the House speaker also covered means to bolster bilateral relations, especially in the economic field.

Pelosi, who stressed the strategic importance of the US' ties with Jordan, emphasised the Kingdom's historic role in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East.

Commending cooperation between Jordan and the House of Representatives, Pelosi stressed her support for the Kingdom's efforts to develop the national economy.

The King voiced his appreciation for the US' support for Jordan's efforts to modernise and develop its economy and proceed with the development process.

In joint statements to the press following the meeting, King Abdullah said Jordan enjoys distinguished relations with the House of Representatives, and is working with the US administration to support peace and stability in the region.

King Abdullah also voiced hope of launching Palestinian-Israeli negotiations as soon as possible with the help of the US.

Pelosi said the meeting with King Abdullah highlights the importance of Jordanian-American ties and the deep friendships and respect the members of the House of Representatives have for King Abdullah.

Referring to previous visits by the King to the US, she said the US benefited from King Abdullah's vision for the future of the region, stressing Washington's willingness to work in close partnership with Jordan to support peace in the Middle East

The meeting was attended by Prime Minister Nader Dahabi, Royal Court Chief Nasser Lozi, the King's Advisor Ayman Safadi, Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh, Planning and International Cooperation Minister Suhair al Ali and Jordan's ambassador to Washington Prince Zeid bin Raad.