Obama wants stronger ties with Kuwait

US President Barack Obama said Monday he wants to build on already "very strong" relations with Kuwait, during a meeting with the Gulf emirate's monarch.

Obama praised Kuwait for hosting US forces involved in operations in Iraq and said the country would play an important role as he winds down the war and begins withdrawing troops.

"Kuwait has been an outstanding host for the United States Armed Forces during its operations in Iraq," Obama said while meeting with Sheik Sabah al-Ahmed al-Sabah at the White House.

"And as we transition our operations in Iraq, it's important for us to emphasize not only our gratitude to Kuwait but also our ongoing commitment to Kuwait's security."

The two leaders discussed moving forward in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process, the conflict in Afghanistan, counterterrorism and Iran's nuclear activities.

"I affirmed to President Obama that we are interested in bringing about peace in the Middle East," al-Sabah said.

US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton met Monday with Jordanian Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh. Both diplomats expressed the need to make progress with the Israelis and Palestinians.

Last updated on Aug 4^th, 2009 at 06:43 am IST--DPA