Russia and Jordan to debate Arab uprisings

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit Jordan on June 26 for talks with King Abdullah II on Arab uprisings as well as regional peace efforts, the palace said on Monday.

"Putin will start a one-day visit to Jordan on June 26, during which he will discuss with the king political changes and developments in the Middle East as well as efforts to achieve peace there," the palace said, indicating that the two leaders will discuss Arab uprisings and Mideast peace efforts.

Russia, one of the four members of the Middle East peace Quartet along with the United States, European Union and United Nations, has traditionally competed with Washington for influence as a power broker in the region.

During his trip, the Russian president will open a guesthouse for Russia's Christian pilgrims at a Jordan Valley site where many Christians believe Jesus was baptized, the palace said.

(AFP)