Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi met with Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa to discuss support for Syria’s reconstruction and potential cooperation on trade, security, and electricity connections. This marks a significant diplomatic engagement, emphasizing Jordan’s interest in stability in Syria and the broader region.
In a significant diplomatic gesture, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi met with Syria’s newly appointed leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, underscoring Jordan’s commitment to supporting Syria’s reconstruction following years of conflict. This visit marks the first by a senior Jordanian official since the fall of Bashar al-Assad. Discussions included potential cooperation in trade, security, border management, and energy, with Jordan expressing its desire for a unified and inclusive Syrian government. Safadi affirmed, “We agree to support the Syrian people in rebuilding their state,” emphasizing the importance of Arab unity in this effort, free from external influences.
The context of this meeting is rooted in a larger regional approach to stabilizing Syria and fostering peace after a prolonged civil war that has left the country in turmoil. Jordan shares a border with Syria and has a vested interest in the reconstruction and stability of its northern neighbor. The recent summit hosted by Jordan, which involved various regional and international diplomats, highlighted a cohesive stance on supporting an inclusive transitional government in Syria.
Moreover, Jordan has seen a recent trend of Syrian refugees returning home, though the interior ministry has reported that over 7,000 individuals have recently departed out of approximately 1.3 million refugees currently residing in Jordan. This return is contingent upon voluntary conditions, with Safadi stating Jordan’s commitment to facilitating support for refugees transitioning back to their homeland. In parallel, Jordan has reinforced border security measures to combat the illicit smuggling of drugs and weapons, particularly targeting the trafficking of captagon.
This diplomatic overture signifies a critical juncture in Jordan-Syria relations, as both nations aim to enhance their collaborative efforts for regional stability and the welfare of the Syrian populace.
The complexity of Jordan-Syria relations stems from the ongoing conflict in Syria, which began in 2011. Jordan, sharing a border with Syria, has had to navigate the influx of over 1.3 million Syrian refugees while maintaining its national security. As Syria’s situation has evolved, Arab states, including Jordan, have expressed a renewed interest in Syria’s gradual reconstruction and stabilizing its political landscape. This interest includes calls for an inclusive government that respects the diverse demographic and political factions within Syria. The recent emergence of new leadership in Syria has prompted Jordan to engage in diplomatic discussions focusing on cooperation in essential areas like trade, security, and humanitarian aid. The shift in Jordan’s foreign policy underlines their commitment to fostering a peaceful resolution to the civil unrest in Syria and to ultimately stabilize the region, which greatly affects Jordan’s internal security and economic conditions.
In summary, the discussions between Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa symbolize a strategic diplomatic move. They reflect Jordan’s commitment to supporting Syria’s recovery and emphasize mutual interests in fostering stability and security in the region. With Jordan advocating for a peaceful, inclusive governance structure in Syria while seeking to address border security challenges, this cooperation is pivotal not only for the Syrian people but also for the geopolitical dynamics of the region.
Original Source: www.france24.com
