King Chairs a Meeting for the State Security Council

Amman
20 March 2003

His Majesty King Abdullah II affirmed that Jordan has done its utmost to reach a peaceful solution for the Iraqi crisis and avert Iraq war and its repercussions.

The King who chaired a meeting for the State Security Council at the General Intelligence Department on Thursday said that "what worries us most is the suffering of the Iraqis and the catastrophic situation they are passing through", stressing the importance of preserving the unity of the Iraqi lands.

"We will not spare an effort to shoulder our humanitarian duties towards the Iraqi people with a view to ease their suffering and overcome the effects of war," His Majesty added.

He urged citizens to normally continue their daily activities and duties, expressing satisfaction over the measures that have been taken by the government to confront the difficult situation facing the region.

Prime Minister Ali Abul Ragheb for his part said that the critical stage we are currently passing through requires dealing with it in a wise and responsible manner, affirming that the government will enforce the law and will not allow any one to violate it.

He said that the government has taken all measures to ensure the availability of supplies, food stuffs and fuel.

The meeting also reviewed measures that have been taken by the concerned authorities to face the current conditions and preserve security and stability of the homeland and its citizens. It also discussed the political and media steps taken by the government at this stage as well as the general guidelines that it has put regarding political moves and coordination with Arab brethren on the Iraqi crisis.