His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday stressed the importance of forging ahead with political reforms, stressing the need for legislation endorsed without any delays despite adverse regional conditions.

At a Royal Hashemite Court meeting with representatives and dignitaries of the Palestinian camps, King Abdullah said: “We do not want any delays in the [enactment] of the elections bill and the other laws that steer political reform in the right direction.”

In line with the King’s commitment to transparency, His Majesty underscored Jordan’s strong decade-and-a-half political positions and the high appreciation of Jordan and Jordanian people worldwide.

His Majesty noted that he heard these words of appreciation in several Eastern and Western countries, saying “today is a chance to thank my people from the north, centre, south, east and west for their positions.”

Regarding Israeli violations in Jerusalem, the King said protecting Jerusalem and Al Aqsa Mosque/Al Haram Al Sharif is the most important issue to him, pointing out that such a mission is his “personal duty” and an honour for Jordan.

“During my recent visit to New York, I spoke with leaders of Arab, Western and Eastern countries and I explained our stance on Jerusalem which is, along with Al Aqsa Mosque/Al Haram Al Sharif, a red line for us. There are no terms of division or partnership in our dictionary,” His Majesty told the attendees.

The King said there are pledges from the Israeli side and “we are waiting for what will unfold in the coming few days”.

In regards to the political situation in the region, His Majesty reiterated Jordan’s stance supporting a political solution in Syria.

“Jordan’s political role in the region is garnering a lot of attention,” the King said, stressing his continuous “pride of and trust in the armed forces and the security apparatus”.

Royal Court Chief, Fayez Tarawneh said His Majesty gave instructions to implement several Royal initiatives that complement the government’s work in several sectors to improve the level of services provided in all camps.

Tarawneh added that these initiatives, to be implemented by the Royal Hashemite Court, come after previous initiatives of a total value of JD13 million that covered development, social care, housing and youths, among others.