Biden, Jordan's King Abdullah II confer on Syria

WASHINGTON (AP) — Vice President Joe Biden and Jordan's King Abdullah II have discussed Syria's civil war and the growing violent extremism the conflict is fueling.

The two met at Biden's official residence on Wednesday, a day after President Barack Obama said Syria is crumbling and peace talks are far from achieving their goal.

The White House says Biden and Abdullah discussed achieving a political solution and the need for humanitarian access. Biden also offered support for Abdullah's efforts to spur political and economic progress.

Jordan has absorbed more than half a million refugees from neighboring Syria and is concerned about regional instability stemming from the crisis.

Abdullah is on a trip to the U.S. where he's been meeting with top lawmakers from both parties. He'll meet with Obama on Friday in California.