His Majesty King Abdullah on Thursday said Jordan's plans for economic and social development that aimed to raise Jordanians' quality of life had been negatively affected by the increase and fluctuation of fuel prices on the international market.

The King was speaking as he and Her Majesty Queen Rania received a delegation of US Senate staffers visiting Jordan.

Jordan would not be deterred from moving forward in pursuing national economic development and that development was key to achieving Jordanian youths' aspirations for a better future, he said, noting that youth constitute more than half Jordan's population.

During the meeting the King also reviewed political developments in the Palestinian territories, saying that the days and weeks ahead should witness crucial developments as Hamas forms a new Palestinian government and Israelis vote for a new prime minister on March 28. The King also called for concerted efforts from the international community to support the restoration of security and stability in Iraq.