His Majesty King Abdullah on Sunday stressed Jordan’s commitment to strengthening its cooperation with the Council of Europe.

During a meeting with Thorbjorn Jagland, the Council’s secretary general, King Abdullah outlined the country’s comprehensive reform process and steps taken so far to boost democracy and expand the base of public participation in decision-making.

The King and Jagland reviewed bilateral relations and the latest developments in the Middle East, as well as other issues of mutual concern.

His Majesty highlighted efforts to push Middle East peace talks forward, emphasising the responsibility of the international community in helping the Palestinians and Israelis return to the negotiating table.

At Sunday’s meeting, which was attended by Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh, Jagland expressed his appreciation for the King’s efforts to achieve political, economic and social reform, stressing the Council’s readiness to support Jordan in this domain. He also commended King Abdullah’s continued efforts to achieve peace in the region.