His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday met with US secretary of state John Kerry to discuss efforts to achieve peace in the Middle East, as well as the Syrian crisis.

King Abdullah was briefed by Kerry on US-led efforts to revive peace negotiations between the Palestinians and Israelis and reiterated Jordan’s continued support for efforts to re-start the peace process based on the two-state solution.

At the meeting, which was attended by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, His Majesty said peace and stability will only be achieved in the region through the establishment of an independent and viable Palestinian state that can exist in peace and security alongside Israel.

The King warned that Israel’s unilateral measures and continued violations of Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem undermine chances and efforts to achieve peace.

On the Syrian crisis, His Majesty said that putting an end to the suffering of the Syrian people and preserving the country's unity required intensive international efforts to reach a comprehensive solution.

The King urged the international community to shoulder its responsibilities in assisting the Kingdom to enable it to bear the increasing burden as a result of hosting more than half a million Syrian refugees and providing them with humanitarian aid and relief.

On his part, Kerry expressed his country’s appreciation for His Majesty’s efforts to bring about peace, security and stability in the Middle East.

He also valued Jordan's positive role in dealing with the Syrian refugees and providing them with relief.

The meeting was also attended by Royal Court Chief Fayez Tarawneh, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriate Affairs Nasser Judeh and the US Ambassador to Jordan Stuart Jones.