By NNN-Petra,
London : Jordan’s King Abdullah II has warned that continued Israeli settlement policies threaten Palestinian rights to an independent state.
During talks with British Prime Minister Gordon Brown at 10 Downing Street Thursday, King Abdullah said achieving peace and living in security and stability in the region will not be realised through settlement construction or by ignoring the historic rights of the Palestinian people.
The King stressed the need to build on international efforts during the past few months to advance the peace process between the Palestinians and Israel.
He called on Britain to intensify its efforts within the European Union and the international community to support Palestinians and Israelis in reaching a peace agreement that addresses final status issues.
King Abdullah said ending the Israeli occupation of Palestinian land and meeting Palestinian aspirations for freedom and independence are the only means to build a secure and stable Middle East.
King Abdullah commended British efforts to assist the Palestinian National Authority in improving the Palestinians’ living conditions.
The talks also addressed the situation in Lebanon following the agreement among Lebanese political factions to elect a new president and begin negotiations to form a new government.
The two sides also discussed Iraq and the government’s efforts to foster security and stability in the country.
King Abdullah and Brown also discussed bilateral issues and ways to develop ties, especially in the economic field.
King Abdullah expressed appreciation for British support for Jordan’s recent efforts to buy back part of its debt to the Paris Club.