Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi of Jordan delivered a verbal message from King Abdullah to Syrian President Bashar Al Assad in Damascus, emphasizing the need for the voluntary return of Syrian refugees and cooperation against drug smuggling. The officials discussed significant progress in refugee return efforts, security concerns, and necessary regional cooperation to address the ongoing crises in Gaza and Lebanon.
On October 20, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi of Jordan met with Syrian President Bashar Al Assad in Damascus. During this meeting, Safadi conveyed a verbal message from His Majesty King Abdullah of Jordan, addressing a variety of bilateral concerns, including the ongoing Syrian crisis, the refugee situation, and the issue of drug smuggling across borders. The message emphasized the importance of ensuring the voluntary and safe return of Syrian refugees, which Assad acknowledged as a priority for his government, stating that substantial progress had been made, particularly pertaining to legislative and legal measures non-occupying the return of refugees. Safadi reaffirmed that resolving the Syrian crisis must uphold Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, reflecting the overarching interests of the region, which Jordan actively supports. During subsequent discussions with Syrian Foreign Minister Bassam Sabbagh, the two diplomats reiterated their commitment to collaboration in combating the escalating threat of drug smuggling from Syria to Jordan, activating their joint committee aimed at addressing this concern effectively since its inception in July 2023. Additionally, Safadi underlined that progress in resolving the refugee issue is intimately tied to their safe return home, though he reminded the international community of its responsibilities towards these individuals until that return can occur. The meeting also highlighted the need for concerted efforts by the international community to mitigate recent escalations in the region, particularly the operations perpetrated by Israel against Gaza, Lebanon, and the West Bank, where humanitarian conditions have deteriorated sharply due to ongoing conflicts. Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to cooperate through the Arab Contact Group to achieve tangible outcomes in the resolution of the Syrian crisis.
The discussions between Jordanian and Syrian officials arise against a backdrop of a protracted humanitarian crisis resulting from the Syrian Civil War. Millions of Syrians have been displaced, with significant numbers seeking refuge in neighboring countries, particularly Jordan. The situation has created complex challenges for governance and stability in the region, compounded by issues related to security threats such as drug trafficking. Jordan has traditionally played an active role in advocating for the safe return of refugees and has engaged with Syria to foster diplomatic relations essential for addressing these challenges. Additionally, the regional political landscape remains volatile, particularly concerning Israeli actions and their implications for stability in Lebanon and Palestinian territories.
The meeting between Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and President Bashar Al Assad signifies Jordan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and addressing critical regional issues, including the Syrian refugee crisis and security threats from drug smuggling. The dialogue reflects a collective interest in building a nuanced diplomatic approach to restore stability in Syria and beyond, underscoring that international cooperation remains essential in alleviating humanitarian burdens and facilitating peace in the region.
Original Source: www.jordantimes.com
