Damascus: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and Expatriate Affairs Ayman Safadi and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shibani emphasized the necessity of establishing a Higher Coordination Council between Jordan and Syria. This initiative aims to enhance bilateral cooperation and benefit both nations and the region.
According to Jordan News Agency, the ministers expressed their commitment to institutionalizing cooperation in various sectors during a joint press conference in Damascus. They outlined a roadmap for collaboration involving ministers from sectors such as water, energy, industry, trade, and transport. The council's efforts include strengthening defense and security cooperation to tackle shared challenges like terrorism and smuggling.
Safadi commended Syria's dedication to strengthening ties with Jordan and noted the significance of the recent lifting of U.S. and EU sanctions on Syria. He highlighted Jordan's advocacy for the removal of these sanctions and expressed hope for rebuilding Syria.
During the meeting, Safadi emphasized the importance of integration, stating that the council's work would lead to tangible outcomes benefiting citizens in both countries. He also reiterated Jordan's support for Syria's transition toward becoming a stable and sovereign nation.
Safadi condemned Israeli actions in southern Syria, asserting that they threaten both Syrian and Jordanian security. He criticized Israel's justifications for its actions and reaffirmed Jordan's support for a comprehensive peace in the region.
On Syria's future, Safadi expressed confidence in the resilience of the Syrian people and highlighted the council's role in fostering cooperation across sectors. He emphasized Syria's geographic significance as a gateway to Europe and Jordan's role in connecting Syria to the Gulf and Arab world.
Al-Shibani thanked Jordan for its support, particularly following Syria's political shift on December 8. He noted that the lifting of sanctions would facilitate deeper economic and strategic ties. He praised Jordan's efforts in hosting Syrian refugees and emphasized the positive impact of joint diplomatic efforts in lifting sanctions.
Both ministers acknowledged the meetings as a significant step in building strategic partnerships and expanding regional cooperation. They highlighted the potential benefits of agreed-upon projects for both countries and the broader region.