EU hails Jordanian reforms

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AMMAN, Jordan, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- Jordan King Abdullah II was praised for committing the country to political reforms by dissolving the Parliament, an EU leader said.

Abdullah dissolved Parliament last week amid growing frustration over the national economy and allegations the king was abusing his position of power.

Protesters said Friday they want more democratic freedoms in a country were the monarchy controls many of the political decisions.

European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso said from Amman that Abdullah had the support of the European Union as he pursued democratic reforms, however.

"And the key to make these reforms successful is to build an inclusive, participatory, and open political system where all Jordanians feel represented," he said in a statement. "In this respect, the recent dissolution of the Parliament will allow for early parliamentary elections which should be inclusive and broad based."

Barroso noted that the European Union had set aside $286 million through 2013 to help with Jordanian political, economic and social reforms.

Jordanian protests last week were organized by the country's Muslim Brotherhood chapter. The Muslim Brotherhood gained considerable influence in Egypt after President Hosni Mubarak resigned last year amid popular protest.