King renews call for just solution to Mideast conflict

AMMAN – His Majesty King Abdullah on Monday met with members of the Arab International Relations Council, which is holding its 4th meeting in Jordan.  

During the discussion with the delegates, the King underlined the important role of the council in shedding light on regional issues and ways to deal with them due to the long experience of its members in the political field, according to a Royal Court statement. 

On efforts to bring about peace in the region, which the two-day meeting will be focusing on, the Monarch reiterated the “centrality” of the Palestinian issue and the need to resolve it in a just and comprehensive manner to bring an end to all tensions and disputes in the region. 

He highlighted Jordan’s stance supporting endeavours to resolve the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and establish an independent Palestinian state based on the two-state solution and the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative. 

King Abdullah underlined the Kingdom’s commitment to protecting Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem. 

Discussions also covered the role of late Saudi King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz in serving Arab causes and the ability of King Salman Bin Abdulaziz to lead Saudi Arabia with “utmost wisdom”. 

His Majesty highlighted efforts to combat extremism and terrorist organisations in the region, calling for rallying Arab and Muslim countries against them. 

Talks also covered the “significant role” religious institutions can play in clarifying the true image of Islam and its moderate teachings that promote tolerance. 

Meanwhile, King Abdullah reviewed the recent developments in Syria and Iraq and other challenges facing some Arab countries, according to the statement. 

For their part, the council’s members commended the King’s efforts in bolstering joint Arab action and advocating Arab and Islamic causes in all international arenas.  

Headquartered in Kuwait, the council is a not-for-profit independent organisation that brings together a number of prominent Arab figures.