ISTANBUL 

Türkiye and Jordan will strengthen the friendship between the two countries, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Saturday as he met King Abdullah in Istanbul, who arrived on an official visit.

Erdogan welcomed the Jordanian monarch at the Dolmabahce Palace, where the two held a one-on-one meeting, followed by talks between their delegations.

The meeting was also attended by Turkish National Defense Minister Yasar Guler, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, National Intelligence Organization chief Ibrahim Kalin, and presidential adviser Akif Cagatay Kilic.

Following the one-on-one meeting, Erdogan was awarded the Order of Al Hussein bin Ali, the highest order of the Kingdom of Jordan. According to the Royal Hashemite Court, it was "in recognition of his efforts to strengthen the deep historical ties and distinguished relations between the two countries."

“In today’s meetings with my dear brother, King Abdullah of Jordan, we made important decisions that will strengthen the friendship between our two countries,” Erdogan said in remarks after receiving the honor.

Erdogan said he and King Abdullah share a common view on the need for peace, security and stability across the region, and expressed appreciation for Jordan’s efforts in safeguarding the holy sites in East Jerusalem.

He also expressed his pleasure and gratitude at receiving the award, saying he sees it as a “concrete manifestation of the deep historical ties” between the two countries.

“I believe that this exceptional order will further strengthen our long-standing brotherhood and friendship," he said.

Before departing the palace, the two leaders held an official dinner.

*Writing by Kanyshai Butun