AMMAN (JT) - His Majesty King Abdullah on Thursday reiterated the importance of launching serious negotiations to resolve the Palestinian-Israeli conflict in accordance with the two-state solution and relevant terms of reference, especially the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative.

Such a solution is the sole means to bring the conflict to an end, ensure stability and security and bring about a lasting peace in the region, the King said during a meeting with a delegation from the US House of Representatives headed by Congressman Gary Ackerman (D-NY), chairman of the Mideast Subcommittee.

His Majesty also underscored the significance of the US role in launching these negotiations, which he said should lead to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on Palestinian national soil.

Discussions also covered means to develop bilateral ties. The delegation included Congressman Keith Ellison (D-MN) and Congresswoman Sheila Jackson (D-TX).

Also Thursday, King Abdullah met with Bahraini Interior Minister Lieutenant General Sheikh Rashed Ben Abdullah Al Khalifa, who conveyed to the Monarch greetings from King Hamad Ben Isa Al Khalifa and renewed willingness to strengthen ties with Jordan.