Jordan's King Abdullah paid a secret visit to Iraq yesterday (11.08.08). The four-hour visit was the first made by an Arab head of sate since the fall of Saddam Hussein in 2003, but was only made public after the king's departure. Iraqi officials hope the visit will allow them to strengthen relations with neighbouring states. Iraqi Prime Minister Mouri al-Maliki released a statement saying: "This visit will open a new page in relations between the two countries which will help to maintain the stability and security in Iraq and all the region." King Abdullah also released a statement, vowing to support the Iraqi government. He said: "Jordan is ready to stand at the side of Iraq to realise the wish of the Iraqi people for security, stability and prosperity." Ties between Jordan and Iraq had previously been strained, with Abdullah said to be worried about the prospect of a pro-Iran government being installed in Iraq and losing the discounted oil they used to receive from the country.