His Majesty King Abdullah on Friday congratulated the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) President Mahmoud Abbas on the opening of the Rafah border crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt.

In a telephone conversation with Abbas, King Abdullah described the border opening as positive and important step to facilitate the Palestinians' links with the world and help them achieve liberation and independence.

His Majesty the King urged the Palestinians and Israelis to take more confidence-building measures and exert joint efforts to push peace talks forward.

Expressing gratitude to King Abdullah's support for Palestinians' causes, Abbas said the PNA will continue to consult and cooperate closely with Jordan to build on what has been achieved.

Under the agreement reached two weeks ago, the crossing will formally open to Palestinians on Saturday.