His Majesty King Abdullah on Sunday said the country's topmost priority is to engage citizens in an active and productive partnership, stressing that ensuring justice and equality among all Jordanians should set the standard the government has to rely on.



Chairing the newly-formed Cabinet's first meeting, King Abdullah said that improving the living standards of citizens should top the government's priorities.



The King voiced appreciation for the previous governments' pursuit to achieve comprehensive development, underlining the importance of building on such efforts to fulfill the aspirations of all Jordanians.



His Majesty said reform cannot be realized overnight and "we are proud that our country was one of the first that adopted reform policies in the region."



The King said obstacles facing reforms should be removed and timetables should be set to implement projects and plans.



King Abdullah said selecting Adnan Badran as premier was based on "his belief in reform and long experience in public service."



The King said all officials should work as one team, underlining the significance of continuous cooperation among the Royal Court, the government and the security apparatuses to go ahead with development and reform plans.



“Our people always deserve the best. We are all working to serve one nation and share one destiny in line with one vision,” King Abdullah said.



His Majesty also stressed that the government should contribute to cementing ties with Arab countries in a way that serves all.



On Iraq, King Abdullah said Jordan is determined to support its eastern neighbor. “The success of Iraqis in rebuilding their country is a success for Jordan,” he said.



The King said that Palestinians "need every sincere effort to help them end the occupation and establish their independent state."



For his part, Badran pledged that the government will do its utmost to realize the vision of His Majesty the King for building a modern country, stressing that the Cabinet will coordinate with the Parliament to realize King Abdullah's directives.