His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday reiterated that any discussion of a Jordanian-Palestinian confederation or federation before the establishment of an independent state is premature.

During a meeting with the editor of Egypt's Al Ahram daily Osama Saraya, King Abdullah said Jordan's position is unwavering. "Any discussion of confederation or federation is premature, and Jordan has no desire to discuss it… The form of the future official Jordanian-Palestinian relationship is something to be decided by both after the establishment of an independent Palestinian state".

The King also said efforts should focus now on launching Palestinian-Israeli peace negotiations that would lead to a two-state solution, an independent viable Palestinian state on Palestinian soil living in security and peace side-by-side with Israel.

His Majesty added that the Arab Peace Initiative is an opportunity to achieve regional peace and end violence and suffering endured by the people of the Middle East, especially the Palestinians.

The King stressed that everyone should give serious consideration to this initiative, especially the Israelis, because it reflects the fundamental Arab desire to achieve a peace that will restore legitimate Arab rights and guarantee Israel's security and stability.