Amman, Sept. 22 (Petra) -- His Majesty King Abdullah II's official visit to France last week highlighted the close and distinctive ties between Jordan and France and underscored the depth of their shared views and interests, French Ambassador to Jordan Franck Gellet said.

The visit also reflected the two countries' mutual determination to continue working together to address the challenges and risks facing the Middle East and North Africa, Gellet told the Jordan News Agency (Petra).

The ambassador said Jordanian-French talks reaffirmed the deep convergence of views and interests between the two countries, underpinned by a high level of mutual trust, particularly in addressing the challenges and risks currently confronting the region.

He said the discussions demonstrated not only a shared assessment of regional developments but also a clear determination by Jordan and France to work together.

Both countries have chosen to strengthen their partnership and continue their efforts to build shared prosperity, Gellet said, stressing that this can only be achieved through stronger commitment to diplomacy, international law and peace.

The ambassador reaffirmed France's support for Jordan's security and stability, describing the Kingdom as a key pillar of peace in the Middle East.

Gellet also welcomed the expected progress in preparatory studies for Jordan's National Water Carrier Project.

Against the backdrop of the Kingdom's water scarcity challenges, he described the project as a strategic and vital undertaking for Jordan.

"This major project, in the face of water scarcity challenges, represents a strategic and vital initiative for Jordan, and France is proud to contribute financially and technically to its success," Gellet said.

//Petra// RZ