Upon an invitation from His Majesty King Abdullah, Pope Benedict XVI on Friday arrived here for a four-day state visit to Jordan.

The Monarch's talks with the pontiff will focus on Jordan's ties with the Vatican and issues related to boosting dialogue and Muslim-Christian co-existence.

Their Majesties King Abdullah II and Queen Rania led a red-carpet ceremony to welcome the pontiff and his accompanying delegation.

The grand reception was attended by Royal family members, Prime Minister, Senate President, Speaker of the Lower House of Parliament and high-ranking officials.