Jordan''s King: We confidently March to future, not fear reform

King Abdullah II on Tuesday told a meeting with a number of youths that Jordan''s reform process is clear and sustainable, stressing "we confidently march to the future and have no fear of reform because we believe it serves the interests of all." King Abdullah said that finalizing the municipalities and elections draft laws and the recommendations of the royal committee tasked with revisiting the constitution is a step forward in the reform drive. The panel will submit its proposed constitutional amendments next week in order to be endorsed according to constitutional channels,reported the Jordanian news agency Petra. The King added that the proposed amendments, expected to be passed by parliament in its extraordinary session next month, are of an advanced level that will boost the balance between the three authorities and enhance parliament''s status. "The completion of the reform package will amount to a legislative structure to arrive at parliamentary governments in the future.", King Abdullah affirmed. During the meeting, King Abdullah stressed the importance of reaching a consensus on an elections law that will ensure better representation of the Jordanian society and set the ground for active parties with clear programmes. Speaking on economic reform, the King said that the priority now is to addressing the budget deficit, slashing public debt and encouraging the private sector to take part in mega developmental projects.