AMMAN, Dec. 23 (Xinhuanet) -- US Republican Congressman James Kolbeon Thursday called on Israel to pay more efforts to push forward the peace process.

   Kolbe said at a press conference here that the Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip is a positive step but it should lead to more steps and give life to the Israeli-Palestinian dialogue.

   US President George W. Bush has asked the Congress for an exceptional aid for the region including Jordan, according to the official.

   He also highlighted Jordan's role in combating terror.

   Earlier in the day, Jordan's King Abdullah II met Kolbe and discussed with him the regional situation, particularly Palestine and Iraq.

   During the meeting, the king reviewed his recent visit to Washington where he held talks with President Bush as well as other US officials on economic relations between the two countries.

   Kolbe, who arrived here Wednesday for a three-day visit, praised the comprehensive development achieved by Jordan despite the hard regional circumstances.  Enditem