Jordan’s King Abdullah set off on Thursday on an international tour during which he will attempt to mobilize international support for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and for efforts to ensure the safety of Palestinian civilians and a mechanism to provide sustainable humanitarian aid to the territory.
His trip, which will include visits to the US, Canada, France and Germany, comes as attempts continue by the US and regional powers to broker a ceasefire agreement and secure the release of hostages, with the wider aim of achieving a long-term solution.
The king will emphasize the important need to establish a political horizon that paves the way for a comprehensive resolution to the long-running Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the Jordan News Agency reported.
In Washington, King Abdullah will hold talks with President Joe Biden, top officials from his administration and members of Congress. This year also marks 75 years of diplomatic relations between the US and Jordan and the king and Queen Rania will visit the White House to celebrate the anniversary.
The king will meet Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Ottawa and French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. He will also attend the 60th Munich Security Conference in Germany, where he is expected to meet several senior European and international officials.
Prince Faisal bin Al-Hussein will assume the role of regent during the king’s absence.