His Majesty King Abdullah on Thursday expressed his support to the programs and projects carried out by the Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation to enhance socio-economic development and raise citizens' living conditions.

At a meeting with Planning and International Cooperation Minister Bassem Awadallah and heads of the ministry's directorates, attended by Royal Court Minister Samir Rifai, the King said attracting foreign assistance and grants in 2005 will help the ministry fund development projects and contribute to achieving sustainable development.

Awadallah said that the Royal visit to the ministry expressed His Majesty King Abdullah's appreciation for the ministry's efforts to help alleviate poverty and unemployment, as well as improve living conditions and enhance economic competitiveness.