Jordan and the UK’s foreign ministers discussed efforts to strengthen the Jordan-UK ties and regional and international issues, especially the Israeli occupation of the Palestinian Territories and the Syrian crisis. The top diplomats explored opportunities for cooperation in the technical, investment, development, economic, trade, defence and security areas and in efforts to combat terrorism. Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi lauded the UK support for Jordan’s economic development programmes and helping the Kingdom to weather regional crises. Safadi praised the UK for announcing a £30 million support package for the World Food Programme (WFP) and the UNHCR. The UK Foreign Secretary, James Cleverly, discussed Jordan’s role, led by His Majesty King Abdullah II, in resolving regional crises and enhancing security and stability. In joint press statements following the talks, Safadi said, “Historically, the United Kingdom is our oldest partner and is one of our most important partners. We work together out of a common desire to develop cooperation in various areas.” Safadi praised the UK for supporting development in Jordan and helping it bear the consequences of regional crises that affect it and its economy. He added that he and Cleverly agreed to develop cooperation in the economic, investment, tourism, educational, and defence and security fields. “The partnership with the UK is deep and old, influential and effective, and we are continuing to develop it within the framework of our common desire to enhance security, stability and peace in the region,” he said. Safadi thanked the United Kingdom for its decision to facilitate the process of granting entry visas to Jordanian citizens. On the region, Safadi said, “We talked today in depth about regional issues, and the focus was on the Palestinian issue.” He lauded the UK’s support of the two-state solution, “which we and our friends in Britain agree is the only way to realise a just and comprehensive peace, which is necessary for regional security and stability.” Safadi added, “We know the difficulty of the challenges facing efforts to re-launch real negotiations to advance towards a two-state solution,” noting the “need” to stop illegal Israeli measures that undermine the two-state solution, especially settlement expansion, confiscation of Palestinian lands, and displacement of Palestinians. Safadi condemned the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque by Israeli extremists who performed “provocative” religious rituals in violation of international law. He said the Al-Aqsa Mosque is a place of worship strictly for Muslims. On refugees, Safadi said, “The secretary and I also talked about the burden that Jordan bears from hosting large numbers of refugees. “We discussed the decline in international support for Syrian refugees and the international organisations that care for them.” Cleverly said, “I am happy to be back visiting Jordan. This is my first trip to Jordan as a foreign secretary. I visited Jordan before that – this wonderful country – when I was minister for the Middle East and North Africa.” He added, “Britain considers Jordan one of the closest friendly countries throughout history and a good ally, and we enjoy a long history that extends back more than a century.” Cleverly said, “I value the opinions and experience of my friend, the foreign minister when I make my decisions related to the region.” He noted Jordan’s “important” role in peacemaking and lauded the efforts of the King in upholding regional peace and security.

Source: Jordan News Agency