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Ammon News - AMMONNEWS - His Majesty King Abdullah II on Monday held talks in New Zealand's capital Wellington, with Governor General Patsy Reddy that focused on means to forge closer economic and trade ties between the two countries, as well as the latest developments in the Middle East.

The discussions also dealt with ways to boost cooperation in the fields of renewable energy, agriculture, education, vocational training, film industry in addition to the exchange of expertise in the civil defense area.

The King and Reddy highlighted the importance of exchanging visits between private sector representatives to explore investment opportunities in the two countries.

During the meeting, which was attended by senior officials form both sides, the King voiced Jordan's keenness to boost bilateral coordination and consultations on various issues of common interest.

His Majesty and the governor general also reviewed the Syrian crisis as well as international efforts to reach a political solution to the crisis that ends the suffering of the Syrian people.

In this context, the King pointed to the increasing pressure placed by the Syrian crisis on neighboring countries, mainly Jordan, which is hosting a large number of Syrian refugees.

The talks also dealt with the threats posed by terrorism and terror organizations to global peace and security, as well as efforts to resume peace negotiations between the Palestinians and Israelis based on the two-state solution.

His Majesty stressed the need to counter the threats of terrorism within a holistic strategy.

The governor general praised efforts being exerted by Jordan to achieve security and stability in the Middle East, noting that her country looks forward to further strengthening relations with Jordan in various areas.

She also highlighted the importance of Jordan's role in dealing with the Syrian refugees crisis and providing humanitarian services to the refugees.

The governor general held a dinner banquet in honor of His Majesty and the accompanying delegation.

In remarks during the banquet His Majesty affirmed the strong ties between Jordan and New Zealand as well as keenness to further develop them in various domains.

King Abdullah stressed the importance of partnership between the two countries, pointing to the security and stability that prevail in both countries

The governor general voiced appreciation of His Majesty's visit, adding that her country is interested in boosting cooperation with Jordan in various domains.

The talks were attended by the deputy prime minister and foreign minister as well as Jordan's ambassador to New Zealand.

Earlier, His Majesty was accorded an official reception upon his arrival at the Government House. An artillery unit fired a 21-gun salute welcoming King Abdullah and a brass band played the national anthems of Jordan and New Zealand.

King Abdullah also visited the National War Memorial in Wellington and laid a wreath on Tomb of the Unknown Warrior.