King holds talks with Iraq PM in Amman

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Monday held talks with Iraq Prime Minister Mohamed Shia Al Sudani, attended by HRH Crown Prince Hussein.

The talks, held at Basman Palace, covered the deep-rooted ties between the two countries, as well as means of enhancing economic cooperation and completing joint projects, according to a Royal Court statement.

During bilateral talks, followed by expanded talks, King Abdullah expressed best wishes of success for Prime Minister Sudani, stressing keenness to enhance the strong ties between the two countries and peoples.

The two sides highlighted the importance of enhancing cooperation on several levels, especially in the fields of politics and economy, to capitalise on what has been achieved in joint projects.

His Majesty stressed the need to maintain bilateral cooperation, and trilateral cooperation with Egypt, as an example of regional integration.

In addition, the two sides reaffirmed the need to maintain coordination and consultation on various issues of mutual concern, in the best interest of the two peoples and in service of Arab causes.

The King underscored the importance of Iraq’s regional role, stressing that Iraq’s security is key to regional security and stability.

Discussions covered regional issues and crises, the Palestinian cause, and efforts to counter terrorism within a holistic approach.

For his part, Prime Minister Sudani expressed his country’s keenness to maintain its distinguished level of relations and cooperation with Jordan in various fields, in the best interest of the two peoples and in service of regional stability and prosperity.

Prime Minister Bisher Khasawneh, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, and Director of the Office of His Majesty Jafar Hassan attended the talks.

From the Iraqi side, Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, Prime Minister Office Director Ihsan Al Awadi, and Anbar Governor Ali Al Dulaimi attended the talks.