BICOM

US President Barack Obama met with Jordan’s King Abdullah II in Washington yesterday, in the start of a week involving several Middle East policy activities for the US president. Following the meeting, President Obama said that it “was more vital than ever” to resume Israeli and Palestinian peace talks. Obama commented that the US and Jordan share the view that the peace process to create two states, one Israeli and Palestinian, living side by side in peace and security was vital. The president also commended King Abdullah’s reform efforts, saying they are good for the security and stability of Jordan. Obama also said that the US will offer economic aid to Jordan and provide 50,000 metric tons of wheat to ease the high commodity prices worldwide.

President Obama plans to deliver a policy speech on the Middle East on Thursday and will meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday. On Sunday, he plans to address AIPAC at the opening session of its annual conference.