His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday underlined the significant role of the Senate in driving the development process forward to overcome economic challenges.

During a meeting with Senate President Taher Masri, the Senate's permanent office members and committee heads, King Abdullah said that development can be advanced through clear and transparent reform programmes.

The King also emphasised the need for teamwork which based on dialogue, openness and transparency so that the Kingdom can forge ahead with comprehensive political, economic and administrative reform.

He voiced confidence that Jordan is strong enough to overcome any challenge and that nationwide cooperation and serious action is needed to address errors and devise mechanisms to rectify flaws.

Wednesday's talks were part of a series of meetings that the King is holding with public figures, entities and institutions.

The King said senators are obliged to maintain communication with officials and citizens in all governorates.

During the meeting, discussions also focused on several public issues, mainly the Kingdom's current economic conditions and ways to deal with them in a manner that safeguards citizens, especially the poor and the middle class, from their repercussions.

King Abdullah stressed that it was necessary to proceed with political and economic reform.

In a statement to Jordan Television, following the meeting, Masri said: “The King has a sharp and accurate vision, close to the people and is aware of their needs and frustrations.” He said that a solid domestic front is required to overcome challenges.