Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi met with Syrian leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa in Damascus, marking a significant diplomatic event since Assad’s ouster. This meeting reflects Jordan’s interest in promoting stability and supporting Syrian refugees while navigating border security issues related to drug trafficking.
On Monday, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi visited Damascus to meet with Syria’s newly appointed leader, Ahmed Al-Sharaa, marking a noteworthy diplomatic engagement since the earlier expulsion of Bashar Assad. Photographs released by the Jordanian Foreign Ministry depicted the two leaders shaking hands, although specific details regarding their discussions were not disclosed. This was the first official visit by a senior Jordanian official following Assad’s departure, indicating a potential thaw in relations between Jordan and Syria.
Jordan has been proactive in addressing the ongoing crisis in Syria, as illustrated by the recent summit held in Jordan, which convened top diplomats from various nations, advocating for a cohesive and peaceful transition in Syria after prolonged civil strife. Al-Sharaa, who leads the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham responsible for overthrowing Assad, has received several senior officials from multiple countries in the region over the past few days.
The Jordanian government has reiterated its support for the Syrian populace, with spokesman Mohamed Momani emphasizing Amman’s desire to restore security and stability in Syria, which is integral to Jordan’s national interest. An increase in the safe return of Syrian refugees from Jordan has been recorded, with over 7,000 individuals repatriating recently, though 1.3 million still reside in Jordan, highlighting the ongoing refugee situation prompted by the conflict.
Jordan has also intensified its border controls in response to drug and weapon smuggling activities along its 375-kilometer border with Syria, undertaking significant efforts to address the rampant trafficking of captagon, an illicit stimulant in high demand within the Gulf region.
The recent meeting between Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Syrian leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa comes against a backdrop of significant political change in Syria following the removal of Bashar Assad. As Jordan shares a border with Syria, it has demonstrated a vested interest in fostering stability and security within the war-torn nation. Prior to this meeting, Jordan hosted a diplomatic summit aimed at discussing the future of Syria amidst ongoing civil unrest. The influx of Syrian refugees into Jordan has necessitated discussions regarding security measures, particularly concerning drug trafficking across the border.
In conclusion, the meeting between Jordanian officials and Syria’s new leadership signifies a potential shift toward renewed diplomatic relations, with emphasis placed on stability and security in Syria. The Jordanian government remains committed to supporting the Syrian people and managing the refugee situation, while also addressing cross-border challenges such as smuggling. This diplomatic engagement may play a crucial role in shaping future relations between Jordan and Syria, as well as regional stability.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
