Jordan King to meet Obama in California

The Royal Palace said Wednesday Jordan's king will meet US President Barack Obama in California on February 14 for talks on Israeli-Palestinian peacemaking, Syria and ways to boost traditionally strong political, economic and security ties, the ABC News reported. Announcing Abdullah II's tour, the palace said the monarch will continue on to Washington, where he is also scheduled for meetings with Congressional leaders, Jewish, Muslim and other religious groups. The palace said Abdullah will start off his trip next week with a state visit to Mexico. Jordan is a close US Arab ally and one of the largest recipients of US aid, which averaged $1 billion annually for the past five years. The kingdom also maintains close security cooperation with Washington and is one of the strongest supporters of America's global war on terrorism. Source: MENA