Amman, Feb 9 (Petra) -- His Majesty King Abdullah II received Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Amman on Monday for a meeting to discuss the latest developments in the Palestinian territories, and affirmed Jordan’s condemnation of illegal measures aimed at entrenching settlements and imposing Israeli sovereignty over the West Bank.

During the meeting, held at Al Husseiniya Palace, His Majesty underscored Jordan’s categorical rejection of any decisions that violate the just and legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, and their right to establish their independent state on the basis of the two-state solution.

The King stressed the need to maintain Jordanian-Palestinian coordination, as well as with regional and international partners to exert pressure to halt dangerous Israeli escalations which threaten to further inflame tensions in the region.

His Majesty reaffirmed Jordan’s steadfast commitment to undertaking its historic role, under the Hashemite Custodianship, in safeguarding Muslim and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.

On the subject of Gaza, the King noted the need to adhere to the ceasefire agreement and begin implementation of its second phase, as well as to substantially increase the flow of relief aid, without impediments, in order to alleviate the catastrophic humanitarian situation.

His Majesty reiterated the importance of supporting the Palestinian National Authority’s reform efforts, in a manner that serves the interests of Palestinians.

For his part, President Abbas expressed his appreciation for Jordan’s continued support to the Palestinians, noting the vital role of the Hashemite Custodianship in safeguarding Jerusalem’s Muslim and Christian holy sites.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, Director of the Office of His Majesty Alaa Batayneh, Palestinian Ambassador to Jordan Attallah Khairy, and the accompanying Palestinian delegation attended the meeting.

//Petra//SS