King holds talks with Bahrain monarch

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Monday held talks with Bahrain King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa, covering the historical brotherly relations between the two countries, and the latest regional developments.

At the talks, held at the Sakhir Palace, King Abdullah stressed the strong bilateral ties and the importance of expanding cooperation across all sectors, in service of the two peoples, according to a Royal Court statement.

His Majesty commended Bahrain’s stances, under the leadership of King Hamad, in support of Arab causes, and its steadfast efforts to maintain Arab unity.

For his part, King Hamad noted the deep-rooted ties between the two countries, and the advanced level of cooperation, as well as the contributions of the Jordanian community in Bahrain in all sectors.

The two leaders expressed satisfaction with the volume of trade exchange, and the advanced level of economic and trade ties, stressing the need to cooperate on countering COVID-19 and eliminating its spread.

King Hamad commended Jordan’s efforts in facilitating the return of Bahraini students and nationals to their country amidst the pandemic.

In addition, the two leaders called for maintaining coordination on efforts to counter terrorism, and sustain security and stability, with King Hamad expressing appreciation for Jordan’s efforts to support Bahrain in countering terrorism and extremism.

During the talks, the two leaders stressed the need to continue to coordinate and consult on issues of mutual concern, foremost of which is the Palestinian cause.

The two leaders noted the centrality of the Palestinian cause, calling for stepping up efforts to reach just and comprehensive peace, on the basis of the two-state solution, as a strategic option to end the conflict, in accordance with international law, recognised terms of reference, and the Arab Peace Initiative, which guarantee the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the June 4, 1967 lines, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

King Abdullah said Jordan will continue its historical role in safeguarding Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, under the Hashemite Custodianship.

King Hamad commended His Majesty’s efforts in supporting Arab causes, especially the Palestinian cause, and safeguarding holy sites in Jerusalem.

Discussions also covered the latest developments in Syria, with His Majesty reiterating Jordan’s support for efforts to safeguard Syria’s sovereignty, stability, territorial integrity, and the unity of its people.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, Director of the Office of His Majesty Jafar Hassan, and Jordan’s Ambassador to Bahrain Rami Wreikat attended the meeting on the Jordanian side.

Sheikh Abdullah Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Sheikh Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Sheikh Khalid Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Sheikh Isa Bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Royal Court Minister Sheikh Khalid Bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, and a number of senior officials attended the meeting on the Bahraini side.