His Majesty King Abdullah on Sunday called for a more active Italian and European role in supporting Arab and international efforts to help resume Palestinian-Israeli negotiations.

At a meeting with Italian Prime Minister Romano Prodi, King Abdullah stressed that the time factor is crucial with the approaching US-proposed international Mideast peace conference, expected in November.

His Majesty told Prodi, who concluded a two-day visit to the Kingdom yesterday, that the remaining time for the meeting should be used to bring closer the viewpoints of both the Palestinians and Israelis.

King Abdullah reiterated that the creation of an independent Palestinian state that lives in peace side-by-side with Israel is the basis for a solution to decades of conflict in the region.

The EU, the King added, can contribute to peace efforts by supporting the Palestinian Authority's endeavors to alleviate the difficult living conditions of the Palestinians and ease their humanitarian and economic suffering.

Prodi, for his part, highlighted Italy's stand towards the peace process and efforts Rome exerts along with the EU countries to reactivate the peace process.

Talks between King Abdullah and Prodi also covered the situation in Iraq. The two sides renewed their keenness to help the Iraqis break the cycle of violence.

On Lebanon, the King and Prodi stressed their support for efforts seeking to preserve this Arab country's security, stability and unity.

King Abdullah and the Italian prime minister also discussed bilateral ties and ways to boost them.

The King voiced appreciation for the support Italy extends to help Jordan implement development projects.