His Majesty King Abdullah on Thursday discussed bilateral relations and regional developments with Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades in Nicosia.

The two leaders discussed the outcomes of Anastasiades’ visit to Jordan in November last year and the outcomes of the Jordanian-Cypriot Business Forum the Kingdom hosted in the same month.

In statements during the expanded meeting, King Abdullah said that Jordan seeks deeper relations with Cyprus, especially in the fields of trade, investment, energy, technology and tourism.

His Majesty said that since his meeting with Anastasiades in Jordan, a lot of developments have taken place, commending Cyprus’ support to the Kingdom.

The King said that the fact that Jordan has recently opened an embassy in Nicosia is an indication of the will to move forward in boosting relations.

His Majesty highlighted the “Aqaba meetings,” which brought together several heads of state and senior officials to unify efforts against terrorism. The King noted that during those meetings, Jordanian and Cypriot officials worked hand-in-hand with a clear understanding of the challenges facing future generations.

Jordan now has a strong ally in Cyprus when it comes to facing international threats, His Majesty said.

Cyprus has supported the Kingdom and helped deliver “Jordan's voice” to the European Union, King Abdullah said, especially regarding its request to simplify the EU rules of origin.

As for the Syrian situation, the King voiced hope that ongoing regional and international efforts to solve the crisis would pay off.

Cyprus also plays a significant role in finding a peaceful solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, His Majesty said.

As for the Cypriot dispute, the King said that Jordan’s stance on the issue is constant and in support of Cyprus.

His Majesty said Prime Minister Hani Mulki would discuss regional projects with the Cypriot side.

For his part, President Anastasiades welcomed the King’s visit, describing it as a milestone in the history of bilateral relations.

He said that the two moderate countries share the same goals of spreading peace and stability in the region, as they both are concerned because of the rise of extremism and terrorism.

Jordan has always been in the forefront in the war on terrorism and suffered from its consequences, Anastasiades said, adding that nonetheless the Kingdom still hosts around 1.3 million Syrian refugees, shouldering huge social, economic and security burdens.

The president said that his country will always support Jordan politically and diplomatically, highlighting the importance of winning the war on terrorism, the result of which, he said, would affect the entire global security system and the future of the 21st century.

Anastasiades also said that Cyprus is always working on bringing the EU and the Middle East countries closer, especially in light of the cultural, economic and political connections.

Expanded talks were attended by Prime Minister Mulki, Royal Court Chief Fayez Tarawneh, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh, Amman Mayor Aqel Biltaji and Jordanian Ambassador to Cyprus Mohammad Fayez, in addition to senior Cypriot officials.

His Royal Highness Prince Feisal bin Al Hussien was sworn in as Regent.