Amman, April 24 (Petra) – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and Expatriates Affairs Ayman Safadi on Thursday held talks with Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijj?rt?, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and advancing cooperation under the strategic partnership with the European Union.

The two ministers reviewed progress on agreements signed in Amman in May 2024, covering cooperation in education, environment, youth, and diplomacy. They highlighted the significance of these agreements in enhancing collaboration between the two friendly nations.

In joint press statements following the talks, Safadi said the visit underscored mutual interest in expanding bilateral cooperation, particularly in education. He noted that Hungary grants 400 annual scholarships to Jordanian students, a gesture that contributes not only to human capital development but also to deepening cultural ties.

Safadi stressed the shared commitment to broadening cooperation across multiple sectors, identifying numerous opportunities to strengthen ties in ways that benefit both countries.

On regional issues, Safadi reiterated Jordan’s firm stance on the need to end the aggression on Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire, the implementation of all stages of the exchange agreement, and the delivery of humanitarian assistance. He warned of an escalating humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, exacerbated by the suspension of aid since March.

He reaffirmed Jordan’s strategic pursuit, alongside Arab partners, of a just and lasting peace based on the two-state solution, which envisions an independent Palestinian state living side by side with Israel in peace and security.

The two ministers also discussed developments in Syria and Lebanon. Safadi underlined Jordan’s commitment to supporting Syria’s stability and sovereignty in a manner that ensures national unity and security. On Lebanon, he stressed the importance of safeguarding civil peace and enabling institutional functionality.

Addressing the refugee issue, Safadi highlighted that Jordan remains the world's largest refugee-hosting country relative to population, and that the burden of refugees requires international cooperation to ensure refugees live in dignity until voluntary return is possible.

Safadi described the talks as comprehensive and transparent, adding that both sides agreed to take practical steps to translate their shared aspirations into expanded cooperation and formal agreements.

He concluded by expressing appreciation for Hungary’s support and reaffirming the importance of continued coordination and dialogue between the two countries.

For his part, Minister Szijj?rt? commended His Majesty King Abdullah II’s custodianship of Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, praising his leadership and efforts toward regional peace and stability.

He reiterated Hungary’s support for accelerating the implementation of the strategic partnership between the European Union and Jordan.

Szijj?rt? also emphasized Jordan’s crucial role in stemming illegal migration, stating that without Jordan’s responsible approach, Europe would have faced uncontrollable waves of migration.

In addition, Szijj?rt? and Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply Yarub Qudah co-chaired the fourth session of the Jordanian-Hungarian Joint Committee, during which the minutes of the session were signed. The meeting outlined concrete steps to bolster cooperation in trade, investment, industry, water, agriculture, and education.

//Petra// AJ

24/04/2025 17:23:09