King urges withdrawal from Gaza, West Bank

Amman
30 June 2005

His Majesty King Abdullah on Thursday said Jordan was focusing its efforts on assisting the Palestinians in their search for a just peace that will help them realize their rights.



During a meeting in Amman with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Palestinian Prime Minister Ahmed Qureia, the Palestinian Legislative Council Speaker Salim Zanoun and members of the Fateh Movement's Central Committee, King Abdullah urged the Palestinian people to consolidate their efforts to realize an independent and viable Palestinian state.



At the meeting, also attended by Prime Minister Adnan Badran and Minister of the Royal Court Marwan Muasher, the King also stressed that the Gaza disengagement should be a first step of a comprehensive withdrawal that includes the West Bank in a second phase and should be in line with the Roadmap.



King Abdullah said Jordan would continue supporting the Palestinian National Authority in enhancing the capability of its civil and security institutions to ensure stability in the West Bank and Gaza.



President Abbas stressed that His Majesty's meeting with members of the Fateh Movement's Central Committee is indicative of the strong relations between the Palestinian and Jordanian people.



Abbas voiced appreciation for Jordan's continuous efforts in assisting the Palestinian people on the difficulties and challenges facing them.