His Majesty King Abdullah II described his talks with French President Jacques Chirac, held at Eleysse today, as "fruitful exchanges."

Speaking to foreign media representatives following the talks, King Abdullah said his current visit to France is one of the best visits that he has paid to France over the last four years.

The King said he exchanged views with President Chirac on a number of Middle East issues.

His Majesty also expressed his thanks to President Chirac for his courageous support to Jordan in all circumstances and over his national commitment and strong belief in the importance of realizing security and peace and hope in the Middle East.

In a bilateral meeting with President Chirac, the two leaders discussed the prospects for peace in the Middle East through a swift return to the Roadmap and the implementation of commitments on part of the Palestinians and Israelis.

The two leaders also affirmed their support for the Palestinian Prime Minister Ahmad Qureia's government to enable it implement its duties towards Palestinians.

On the other hand, the two leaders discussed the future of Iraq, particularly in light of the current international movements which aim at issuing a new resolution regarding the international community's contribution to maintaining peace and rebuilding of Iraq.

The King affirmed the importance of giving the Iraqis a chance to run their own affairs through forming an elected national government During the banquet, hosted by President Chirac, the two sides discussed various bilateral issues, particularly the French support for the Jordanian economy through increasing its investments in Jordan as well as activating cooperation between the Jordanian and French private sectors.