Prime Minister Harper welcomes King Abdullah II of Jordan

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It is an honour and a pleasure for me to welcome to Canada, His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan. 

His Majesty is a principled leader who has been a tireless advocate for moderation, peace and progress in the Middle East.

We have had very productive meetings this morning on both bilateral and wider issues.

On bilateral matters, I’m pleased to announce that Canada and Jordan have concluded an air transport agreement and a foreign investment protection and promotion agreement. 

We will also be commencing a study into the feasibility of a free trade agreement, with a view to beginning negotiations next year.

Canada will also be providing further assistance to Jordan to support literacy, land mine clearance, women’s participation in development and local election capacity.

I would also like to draw attention to the launch tomorrow of Jordan’s first mortgage loan insurance company, Darkom. 

By sharing expertise, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation has been a key partner in this venture.

On broader matters, we discussed a wide range of regional issues in the Middle East, including governance and human rights.

We share a common commitment to promote peace in the region. 

We are both supportive of the government of Palestinian President Abbas and Prime Minister Fayyad, and are close friends and partners with Israel.

Let me conclude by affirming the deep respect I have for his Majesty and for his leadership in the Middle East. 

We admire his promotion of peace and pluralism, both within the Islamic community and between Islam and other faiths. 

The world needs many more leaders who will promote the principles for which King Abdullah stands with his courage and conviction.