His Majesty King Abdullah on Sunday met Catherine Ashton, the outgoing EU high representative for foreign affairs and security policy.

King Abdullah thanked Ashton for her contributions and “distinguished” efforts to foster the relationship between the Kingdom and the EU, which reached an advanced level of partnership.

His Majesty underlined Jordan’s commitment to supporting EU efforts in bringing about peace, stability and security to the region and its people — an endeavour that requires international participatory efforts.

The King cited regional and international efforts to deal with the dangers of terrorism and combat extremist ideologies that not only threaten the region, but the entire world.

Highlighting the repercussions of the Syrian crisis, His Majesty reiterated Jordan’s position in backing a comprehensive political solution that protects the unity and cohesion of Syria and its people.

Turning to Iraq, the King said the Kingdom stands behind Iraqis in their efforts to overcome different challenges and supports all efforts that enhance their unity and participation in building their future.

Talks also covered attempts to achieve a comprehensive and just peace in the Middle East according to the two-state solution in a way that addresses final-status issues, arriving at the establishment of an independent state of Palestine on Palestinian national soil.

For her part, Ashton commended the Kingdom’s commitment to maintaining coordination with the EU at all levels, lauding Jordan’s “wisdom” in dealing with regional concerns.

At the end of the meeting, His Majesty bestowed the Kawkab Medal of the First order on the EU official in recognition of her efforts.