His Majesty King Abdullah on Thursday held talks here with Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra on bilateral relations and Mideast issues.

King Abdullah, who returned home last night, reiterated that the establishment of an independent Palestinian state was the only way to help achieve a comprehensive and peaceful solution in the Middle East.

Thaksin commended the King's efforts to create stability in the region and ensure the full implementation of the roadmap to Middle East peace — which envisions a Palestinian state that lives in peace side by side with Israel.

On Iraq, His Majesty the King voiced hope that the parliamentary elections would result in a legislature representing all the components of the Iraqi population and help build a stable and unified country.

King Abdullah, meanwhile, briefed Thaksin on efforts by Jordan to spell out the true image of Islam as a faith of tolerance and moderation.

The King also reviewed recommendations by the Organisation of the Islamic Conference's meeting in Mecca earlier this month.

Thaksin voiced appreciation for such efforts, including the King's talks with Muslim leaders around the world.

On bilateral relations, the two leaders discussed prospects of cultural cooperation and exchange of scholarships, giving Thai students the opportunity to study Islamic sciences and Arabic language in Jordan.

They also discussed ways to increase Thailand's imports from Jordan, including Dead Sea products, potash and fertilisers, as well as expanding the Asian country's investments in the Kingdom.

King Abdullah and Thaksin attended the signing of an agreement to protect mutual investments.

The Jordan Times