Obama, King Abdullah urge Iran to end nuclear program

Updated at: 0514 PST, Wednesday, June 30, 2010 WASHINGTON: US President Barack Obama and Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah on Tuesday voiced "strong support" for international efforts to curb Iran's nuclear program, which the West says masks a secret drive to develop the capability for an atomic bomb, the White House said. Obama and the King also expressed hope "proximity talks between Israelis and Palestinians will lead to the resumption of direct talks with the aim of two states living side-by-side in peace and security," the White House said in a statement. President Barack Obama says he and King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia agreed Tuesday on the need to press for Middle East peace in a "significant and bold way," including the creation of a Palestinian homeland. The two leaders briefly addressed reporters in the Oval Office after finishing a private meeting and lunch. Obama said he and Abdullah covered Afghanistan and Pakistan, efforts to combat extremism and Iran's attempts to obtain nuclear weapon capability. The president praised what he called a strong, strategic relationship with Saudi Arabia, which holds considerable leverage in the Middle East. Obama told the king he appreciated his friendship and counsel. Abdullah said Obama is respected around the world as an "honorable man."