His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday discussed with Prime Minister Samir Rifai government programmes to implement the directives included in the Letter of Designation.

Following his meeting with the premier, King Abdullah chaired an extended meeting with the Cabinet, during which he was briefed by heads of ministerial committees on the achievements of the government's seven-part plan to achieve political, economic and social reform.

The King expressed his satisfaction with the government's performance and confidence in its methodology. He stressed the importance of continuing the systematic approach adopted by the government and of focusing on projects that can improve citizens' living conditions and public services. He emphasised the need for development that reflects positively on citizens throughout the Kingdom and said transparency and communication with citizens was paramount.

King Abdullah called for speeding up the implementation of programmes to increase citizens' participation in the decision-making process.