His Majesty King Abdullah II stressed that Jordan was keen to consolidate the concept of respect for human freedom and dignity, ensure the rule of law and achieve justice and equality in society.

The King's remarks came during a meeting with the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the National Center for Human Rights (NCHR) Ahmad Obeidat as part of the King's follow up on the center's 2005 report.

King Abdullah said the government and all relevant parties are concerned with reviewing laws and legislation governing human rights in Jordan to avert any violations in that regard.

During the meeting, also attended by the General Commissioner for Human Rights in Jordan Shaher Bak, King Abdullah emphasized that a comprehensive plan is being drawn up to improve prison conditions in Jordan and to ensure that they comply with international standards.

His Majesty also expressed appreciation for the NCHR's role in perusing human rights issues.

Obeidat commended the King for giving prominence to human rights issues, adding that the meeting also emanated from His Majesty's keenness to listen to different view points.

He added that the discussion touched on Jordan's position regarding major international human rights agreements endorsed by the Kingdom, including the International Covenant on Civilian and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, Convention Against Torture, Anti-Racism Agreement, as well as the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Obeidat added that the center will maintain an open channel with the government to ensure implementation of these agreements. He also said that the NCHR has seen some positive indications this year that the center's recommendations on human rights issues are being taken into consideration. He pointed to the formation of a committee at Ministry of Labor to review the labor law to ensure it conforms to international standards.

He added that the center is aware of the prison reform plan and said that it is taking positive steps, regardless of the latest incidents and problems. He said "We are talking here of a systematic approach to reform prisons in accordance with international standards."

According to the NCHR, its annual report is prepared in line with international standards for human rights, the constitution and national law.