Jordanian King Abdullah II Bin Al-Hussein said on Tuesday he
hoped China to play an important role in the Middle East peace
process.
"China can play an important role in supporting this process,
both as a world power and respected and trusted Asian neighbor. We
appreciated the steps China has already taken," said Abdullah in a
speech at the prestigious Peking University.
"We recognize China's voice in peace-making and international
cooperation for your permanency of the United Nations Security
Council," said Abdullah, "We are deeply interested in China's
success. We look to your country as a model of development..." he
said.
Abdullah arrived here Monday for a four-day state visit to China
as guest of Chinese President Hu Jintao.
He said it was a special honor to be here at a time when the two
countries celebrate the 30th anniversary of diplomatic ties.
Noting that Jordan and China share common interests, he said the
Jordanian people are very grateful for the assistance and support
China has provided for the past years.
More and more Jordanian students are studying in China, and
scholars of both countries are doing meaningful exchanges. Cultural
exchanges have strengthened and enriched the understanding of each
other, said the King.
He mentioned the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, saying the
extraordinary event is bringing China growing international
relationship.
"I hope our partnership will grow as well. The Arab countries
and China have a long legacy of long relationship," said
Abdullah.
Abdullah is scheduled to hold talks with President Hu Tuesday
afternoon and meet with Premier Wen Jiabao Wednesday. He will also
attend a reception celebrating the 30th anniversary of China-Jordan
diplomatic ties and the first meeting of a bilateral strategic
dialogue in Beijing.
Beside the capital, Abdullah will also visit the commercial hub
Shanghai, where he will attend a China-Jordan trade forum.
This is Abdullah's fifth Beijing tour since he succeeded to the
throne in 1999.
(Xinhua News Agency October 31, 2007)
