AMMAN, April 20, 2008, (WAFA)-King Abdullah II of Jordan discussed on Sunday with former US president Jimmy Carter and stressed the need for 'tangible progress' in the ongoing peace negotiations between the Israelis and the Palestinians.

'King Abdullah underscored the importance of achieving tangible progress in the peace talks between the two sides and ensuring the availability of circumstances that lead to success of the negotiating process and the setting up of an independent Palestinian state,' a royal court statement said.

'The king also stressed the significance of Israel giving up its policy of blockade and expansion of settlements,' the statement added.

King Abdullah expressed 'appreciation for Carter's active role and contributions towards the establishment of peace in the region, ending the Arab Israeli conflict and boosting world peace'.

Carter briefed the king on the outcome of his Middle East tour earlier this week.