His Majesty King Abdullah discussed several local issues and the latest developments in the Middle East in an interview with CNN on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum.

Responding to a question on the formation of the new government, King Abdullah said Prime Minister Awn Khasawneh is an internationally renowned judge and a jurist with a deep experience that enables him to manage the coming stage, which will see the ratification of political reform laws and preparations for national elections.

On the regional front, the King noted that no one knows how to deal with on the situation in Syria, expressing “great concern” over the unrest there.

“I don’t think there’s anybody in the region or outside who knows how to tackle the Syria issue. I’ve spoken to Bashar twice. I have sent the chief of the Royal Court to see him on several occasions to outline how Jordan is trying to implement political reforms. […] Not that we’ve got anything perfect, but you know, national dialogue and outreach.”

The King stressed that Jordan has been very careful to keep all channels of communications open with the Syrians.

Regarding the Middle East peace process, King Abdullah said he is pessimistic about its future. “I am one of the most optimistic people you’ll meet in the Middle East, and for the first time I am very pessimistic about the Israelis and Palestinians moving forward,” he said.

The King said he is not convinced that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is interested in a two-state solution.

King Abdullah urged the Americans not to disengage from the region during US election season, calling for focus to remain on the Palestinian cause as the region’s central issue.