Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi met with Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa to discuss cooperation on trade, aid, and security, emphasizing support for a new constitution and inclusive government, as well as the importance of stabilizing the region and managing Syrian refugees’ return.
In a significant diplomatic visit, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi met with Syria’s newly appointed leader Ahmed al-Sharaa in Amman, expressing Jordan’s commitment to supporting Syria’s reconstruction efforts. This meeting marks the first time a senior Jordanian official has traveled to Syria since Bashar al-Assad’s ousting. The discussions revolved around enhancing cooperation in areas such as trade, border management, humanitarian aid, and security, alongside a shared aspiration for a new Syrian constitution.
Safadi reaffirmed Jordan’s backing for a potentially inclusive Syrian government that reflects diverse societal elements and emphasized the notion of territorial unity in Syria. “We agree to support the Syrian people in rebuilding their state,” he stated, stressing that Jordanian interests align with stability and security along its borders with Syria. The discussions also included Jordan’s commitment to maintain support for Syrian refugees, highlighting the importance of their voluntary return.
The visit comes on the heels of a summit where multiple regional and international diplomats advocated for a peaceful transition in Syria following years of conflict. Adequate security restoration in Syria aligns with Jordan’s interests as it directly impacts the kingdom’s stability, particularly given the influx of over 1.3 million Syrian refugees currently residing in Jordan, among whom more than 7,000 have begun to return home in recent weeks.
Furthermore, Jordanian authorities have been tightening border controls with Syria to combat the rampant smuggling of narcotics and weapons, critical issues given the high demand in Gulf countries for drugs like captagon. Overall, this visit reflects a strategic move to reinforce ties with Syria and advocate for cooperative regional stability.
The political landscape in Syria has been tumultuous following the ousting of longtime leader Bashar al-Assad as a result of civil unrest and war that has affected the region since 2011. Jordan’s geographical proximity to Syria has necessitated a focus on maintaining stability and security in the region. The presence of over a million Syrian refugees in Jordan underscores the humanitarian aspects of this issue, making it crucial for Jordan to engage in dialogues that propose solutions to both political and economic challenges in Syria.
In conclusion, the meeting between Jordan’s Foreign Minister and Syria’s new leader marks a pivotal step towards regional cooperation and stability following years of conflict. Jordan’s advocacy for a collaborative rebuilding of Syria, along with its continuous support for Syrian refugees, underscores its commitment to fostering security and unity within the region. This visit may herald a new chapter in Jordan-Syria relations, facilitating efforts towards reconstruction and humanitarian assistance.
Original Source: www.france24.com
