His Majesty King Abdullah on Tuesday stressed the importance of boosting Jordanian-Kuwaiti ties in all fields, especially economic and investment cooperation.
During a meeting with editors-in-chief of Kuwaiti dailies and media leaders from the emirate, King Abdullah also expressed his commitment to offer all forms of incentives and facilities to Kuwaiti businessmen wishing to launch investment projects in the Kingdom.
Highlighting the need to further boost tourism among Arab states and increase Arab investments in the Kingdom’s tourism sector, he reviewed projects currently implemented in various parts of the country.
The King also noted that Jordan’s membership in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is an important step. “When ties among Arab states are enhanced, it will be of great benefit to all,” he said.
He emphasized that inter-Arab relations require clear and transparent discussions on all issues to achieve the highest levels of coordination and cooperation among Arab states.
“When discussing the mechanisms to finalise Jordan’s membership in the Gulf Cooperation Council all issues should be looked into in a transparent and frank manner,” the King said.
The King also spoke about the Middle East peace process, saying that it is passing through a "dark tunnel" and that the situation is not encouraging. He reiterated that tension, violence, insecurity and instability will continue in the region unless there is a just and permanent solution for the Palestinian question that ends the occupation and guarantees the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders.
He said Jordan is proceeding with comprehensive reforms, emphasising that economic reform should be made alongside political reform to address economic challenges and create job opportunities to meet the young peoples’ aspirations for a better life.
“I am optimistic regarding reforms and citizens should play an essential role in the decision-making process,” the King said, adding that Jordan has a well defined roadmap for achieving reform.
He said the Royal committee entrusted with revisiting the Constitution is expected to present its recommendations in the coming days, after which it is expected that the proposed amendments will be referred to Parliament in September to endorse the new elections and political parties laws.
King Abdullah expressed hope that new legislation will achieve better representation for all Jordanians and that the country will reach a point when governments are elected to be fully responsible for the decision making-process.
He said Jordan looks forward to political parties with economic, political and social programmes that can meet the needs of Jordanians and boost the reform process in the country.
Expressing their appreciation of the King’s reform vision and endless support for Arab issues, the Kuwaiti delegates said Jordan’s membership in GCC will be an added value to the council and benefit all members.
Royal Court Chief Khaled Karaki, the King’s media adviser, Amjad Adaileh, Royal Court Adviser Amer Hadidi and Kuwait’s Ambassador to Jordan Hamad Saleh Al Duaij attended the meeting.