Parliament leaders on Monday pledged to proceed with reforms in full partnership with the government.

In replies to King Abdullah's Speech from the Throne, the speakers of the Upper and Lower Houses of Parliament stressed that they will be guided by His Majesty's directives in their efforts to help the country overcome challenges facing it.

At meetings with both Chambers at the Raghadan Palace, the King listened to the replies in which Senate President Zeid Rifai and Lower House Speaker Abdul Hadi Majali stressed that legislators would do their utmost to contribute to the reform process and directives outlined in the King's speech inaugurating the first ordinary session of the 15th Parliament.

In the Speech from the Throne early this month, King Abdullah said improving people's living standards tops the country's agenda, calling for “productive cooperation between the legislative and executive authorities to achieve political, economic and social reform plans”.

The King urged the deputies and the government to work to serve people's interests away from “personal interests, or interests that are related to a district, party or narrow tribal affiliation”.

In the reply to the speech, Rifai said the Senate will commit itself to the King's directives and work for transparency and accountability in the legislation process.

He said the focus will also be placed on efforts to achieve higher economic growth, enhance financial and monetary stability, address the problem of indebtedness, rationalise expenditures, further rely on local resources and enhance the role of the private sector in development.

Rifai said the Senate will support the government in its efforts to develop education, expand the coverage of medical insurance and activate monitoring on food products, drugs, water and environment.

Speaker Majali stressed the Lower House's commitment to the partnership and cooperation with executive authority, stressing the role of legislative authority in monitoring and accountability.

Majali stressed support to reform and modernisation plans highlighted by King Abdullah, noting that the economic, social and political challenges the Kingdom faces required work in the spirit of one team to protect the rights of citizens, entrench justice and promote comprehensive development principles.

He said the Lower House is keen on enhancing a culture of democracy, political development and political parties' involvement.