Alleviating poverty, unemployment should top government's priority list - King

Amman
12 April 2005

His Majesty King Abdullah on Tuesday said reform programs and plans set by the National Agenda's committee will be the framework the government has to adhere to.



During a meeting with Senate President Zeid Rifai, Lower House Speaker Abdul Hadi Majali and heads of parliamentary blocs and committees, His Majesty underlined the significance of continuous coordination between the parliament and the government.



"The parliamentarians and cabinet members should work as one team to realize a better future for Jordan," said the King during the meeting at the Royal Court.



His Majesty said that the formation of the new government led by Adnan Badran came as part of efforts to continue the development march and build on what has been achieved by the previous governments.



But, the King said that the government can not work alone to fulfill people's aspirations and therefore representatives of people at the parliament should shoulder their responsibility to back up the government's development plans and programs.



"Improving citizens' living standards and alleviating poverty and reducing unemployment should top the government's priorities," His Majesty said.



During the meeting, His Majesty said that he also instructed the government to work to enhance ties with Arab states in all fields.



The King reiterated Jordan's keenness on supporting Iraqi people to build their country.



King Abdullah also said that Jordan is keen on achieving a comprehensive and just peace in the region as well as helping Palestinians establish their independent country.