His Majesty King Abdullah on Monday reiterated his support for efforts exerted by Arab Christians to protect holy sites and the Arab identity of Jerusalem.

His Majesty made the remarks during a meeting with Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Michel Sabbah and Bishop Fouad Twal.

Patriarch Sabbah, the most senior Roman Catholic cleric in the Holy Land, announced in March this year that he will retire as he has reached the age of 75, and be replaced by Bishop Twal, who has assisted him since 2005.

Twal, who was born on October 23, 1940 of a Christian family in Jordan, is scheduled to take over the post on June 22.

During the meeting, King Abdullah highlighted the importance of supporting Palestinians in Jerusalem, boosting their steadfastness and helping them overcome their challenges and difficult living conditions.

The King said preserving the Arab identity of Jerusalem and supporting the people of the holy city is a top priority that requires us all to exert more efforts.

His Majesty also commended the efforts exerted by Patriarch Sabbah over the years in support of the Palestinian issue and of fostering the presence of Arab Christians in the holy city.

Sabbah was named Latin patriarch of Jerusalem by Pope John Paul II in 1987, becoming the first Palestinian to hold the position since the Crusades.

In a statement to Jordan Television (JTV), the patriarch said he was honored to meet with King Abdullah on the day that marks the anniversary of his accession to the Throne and expressed his best wishes to the King.

He also voiced hope that efforts to achieve peace in the region will continue.

Sabbah said he will entrust Twal with his mission before the end of this month, in accordance with church tradition.

Referring to the expansion of Saint Mary's Hospital in Jerusalem, Sabbah explained that it will include the establishment of a maternity ward, pointing out that the hospital, built in 1880, serves both Muslims and Christians in the city.

Meanwhile, Twal referred to the situation in the Palestinian territories, noting the many challenges and difficulties in the West Bank.

HRH Prince Ghazi, the King's special adviser and personal envoy, and Royal Court Chief Bassem Awadallah attended the meeting.