His Majesty King Abdullah on Monday received Commissioner for European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations Johannes Hahn at Al Husseiniya Palace, and discussed the strategic partnership between Jordan and the European Union, as well as current regional developments.

The meeting covered Jordan-EU cooperation and means to benefit from the agreement on simplifying the rules of origin to increase Jordanian exports to European markets.

King Abdullah expressed appreciation for the EU’s support for Jordan in a number of sectors.

Discussions also addressed developments related to the Palestinian-Israeli peace process. His Majesty stressed the need to step up efforts to reach a just and lasting peace based on the two-state solution and leading to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.

In addition, the meeting covered the financial challenges facing UNRWA. The King called for more efforts to support the UN agency to enable it to continue its relief, education, and health services for refugees.

His Majesty also voiced appreciation for the European Union’s role in pushing the peace process forward and supporting UNRWA.

The importance of reaching political solutions to regional crises, especially in Syria to guarantee its territorial integrity and the unity of its people, was also discussed.

Moreover, discussions touched on the Syrian refugee burden on Jordan’s economy and limited resources, and the importance of providing the conditions to encourage the voluntary return of refugees to their country.

Commissioner Hahn affirmed that the European Union sees Jordan as a key partner and is committed to continue supporting it to implement development and economic plans.

The commissioner for European neighbourhood policy and enlargement negotiations also expressed the EU’s appreciation of Jordan’s major role in hosting a large number of Syrian refugees.

Adviser to His Majesty and Director of the Office of His Majesty Manar Dabbas, Planning Minister Mary Kawar, and EU Ambassador to Jordan Andrea Matteo Fontana attended the meeting.