His Majesty King Abdullah on Tuesday said Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is committed to tackle security issues to push the peace process forward.



King Abdullah told the press after talks with US President George W. Bush that Abbas is an effective peace partner and that he and Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon will move forward with their peace process. “I am very optimistic that between the two leaders the process will go forward and go forward positively,” said the King.



King Abdullah described his talks with President Bush as fruitful in their pursuit to make the Middle East a better place.



“We had the chance to discuss the issues of the peace process and how we can move that forward,” said His Majesty.



Bush commended His Majesty's wise leadership and his understanding of the need for reform as well as his clear vision to fight terrorism.



The US President said that Jordan has become an example of reform, stressing that King Abdullah managed to encourage reform and draw up mechanisms that could fulfill people's aspirations.



On the Palestinian-Israeli issue, Bush said “the role of the United States will be to continue to urge both parties to make the necessary sacrifice... meaning that Israel must withdraw from the settlements... there must be contiguous territory into which a Palestinian state can grow.” On their part, Bush added, the Palestinians have to continue efforts to fight violence, while the Arab world must work together to help the Palestinians build democratic institutions. “I believe President Abbas is desirous of developing a state that will live side-by-side with Israel in peace.”



During the meeting with President Bush, the King said that the understanding reached at Sharm El Sheikh summit provided the opportunity for a sincere relaunch of confidence-building measures to resume peace talks, take tangible steps to move forward and implement the roadmap.



King Abdullah said establishing just, comprehensive and lasting peace in the region would strengthen democracy, promote economic growth and achieve regional sustainable development.



His Majesty the King stressed that peace and stability in the region can never be achieved without restoring legitimate Arab rights as well as Israel withdraws from the Palestinian territories and the Palestinians establish their independent state.



The King said that the Arab peace initiative has reflected the Arabs' true desire to realize peace and denounce violence and extremism. He added that the initiative will top the agenda of the coming summit in Algiers.



King Abdullah called on the international community to immediately take steps to help Iraqis restore security and stability in their country and preserve their territorial integrity.



His Majesty reiterated Jordan's stand which supports the implementation of UN resolutions, including 242, 338 and 1559. He said Jordan supports holding free elections in Lebanon and all efforts aimed at preserving its independence, security and stability. He also urged maintaining brotherly ties between Syria and Lebanon.



During the talks, King Abdullah said the international community should work together to fight violence and terrorism.



Referring to reform plans in Jordan, King Abdullah said Jordan is going ahead in its reform programs and "is committed to build an open and modern civil society."



The King voiced appreciation for the US for its assistance to Jordan, saying such support helps the Kingdom implement economic, educational and investment plans despite the difficult regional circumstances.



Also on Tuesday, King Abdullah met with US National Security Adviser Stephen Hadley. Talks covered recent developments in the region.



His Majesty King Abdullah is expected to meet Vice President Dick Cheney tomorrow. He is also expected to discuss US assistance to Jordan with senior US Congress leaders.