His Majesty King Abdullah on Thursday discussed with Hamas politburo chief Khaled Mishaal and an accompanying delegation the latest regional developments and other issues of mutual concern.

During the meeting, King Abdullah stressed that Jordan is doing its utmost to push for intensified efforts to reach a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue, which is the core cause of conflict in the region.

The King reiterated Jordan's support for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people and their quest for an independent state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, in line with the two-state solution, international resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative.

His Majesty underlined that enhancing the unity of the Palestinian people would immensely help in the pursuit of their legitimate rights.

The King underscored that Jordan will continue performing its duties towards the brotherly Palestinians to help alleviate their suffering and will extend the possible assistance to Palestinians in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip to help them navigate the current difficult stage.

On his part, Mishaal highlighted the historic relationship between the Jordanian and Palestinian people, saying in remarks at the meeting: "Jordan and the King will be always in our hearts and held in the highest esteem … Your Majesty, we will be at Jordan’s service in all issues."

Mishaal also noted that the meeting with the King came at a critical time and as part of ongoing consultation and coordination between the two sides, expressing keenness on improving ties with Jordan in all fields.

The Hamas chief and his accompanying delegation voiced the Palestinian peoples' appreciation for the King's efforts and his endless support to their cause.

Mashaal also underlined that Hamas completely rejects calls to make Jordan the substitute homeland for the Palestinians, who are determined to restore all of their legitimate rights.

Mishaal and the Hamas delegation commended Jordan’s efforts to implement comprehensive reforms led by His Majesty on all tracks, aimed at achieving development and modernisation in the political, economic and social spheres. They also praised the King’s approach to the Arab Spring, which His Majesty seized as an opportunity to deepen democracy and push ahead with the reform process.

Present at the meeting, which continued over a lunch banquet in honour of the Hamas’ politburo chief and the accompanying delegates, were His Royal Highness Prince Ali bin Al Hussein, Prime Minister Fayez Tarawneh, Royal Court Chief Riyad Abu Karaki and His Majesty’s Office Director Imad Fakhoury.

The Hamas delegation included Sami Khater, Mohammad Nazzal, Dr. Khalil Al Hayyeh, Maher Obeid, Ibrahim Ghosheh and Mohammad Nasser.