JERUSALEM (JTA) — Israeli President Shimon Peres met in Amman with Jordan’s King Abdullah, the President’s Office confirmed.
Monday’s unannounced meeting comes amid tension between Jerusalem and Amman over recent developments in the region and the failing peace process.
The two leaders discussed bilateral issues, the peace process between Israel and the Palestinians, and new developments in the region, according to a statement from the President’s Office. The meeting was held in a "warm, friendly and open atmosphere," the statement said.
Jordan’s official Petra news agency reported that Abdullah briefed Peres on his visit last week to Ramallah and called on Israel to halt all construction in the settlements.
Abdullah also said that Israel should not try to Judaize Christian and Muslim sites in Jerusalem, according to Petra.
Peres and Abdullah agreed to meet again in the near future, according to the President’s Office.
