His Majesty King Abdullah said municipal and parliamentary elections would be held this year and called on citizens to participate in the polls.
In an interview aired on Jordan Television's (JTV) 60 Minutes program, King Abdullah urged the Lower House to accelerate the endorsement of laws regulating political life in the Kingdom in order to advance political development.
The King, who was interviewed by JTV Director General Faisal Shboul before departing on a four-day visit to the US, said that he was aware of the hardships faced by citizens due to the rising cost of living and the regional situation, especially in Iraq and Palestine.
However, the King said the country was on the right track with development plans to enhance the living conditions of citizens, especially the poor and those with limited income. He said improving living standards was a top priority.
During the interview, the King said his trip to the United States this week is a response to regional challenges that necessitate comprehensive action to prevent the situation from deteriorating.
King Abdullah said it is important to encourage the engagement of world powers, especially the United States, in regional conflict resolution, adding that the Middle East is at a crossroads between peace and stability or chaos, violence and destruction.
In the US, the King will explain the Arab vision of Middle East peace embodied in the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative in a special address to a joint meeting of US Congress on March 7. His address will follow talks with US President George W. Bush, Vice President Dick Cheney and Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice on regional developments and means to revive the peace process.
Stressing that the US is a key player in the region's issues and the country most capable of influencing Israel, King Abdullah America must use its influence and demonstrate impartiality to the people of the region. But he said, Israel must also choose between living in "fortress Israel" or living in peace and security with its Arab neighbors.
King Abdullah added that during his meetings with US officials and elected representatives, he will discuss assistance and support for development projects in Jordan.
On Iraq, the King said Jordan supports all efforts to achieve a consensus between Iraqis and establish stability in the country.
During his US trip, he will also meet American business leaders to acquaint them with the investment opportunities available in the country.
The Jordan Times