Brussels, March 18 (Petra) -- Minister of Foreign and Expatriates Affairs Ayman Safadi met on Tuesday with the European Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee and the Relations with the Mashreq Committee and members of the International Trade Committee and rapporteurs of the European Parliament's Macro-Financial Assistance Package for Jordan.

The discussions centered on bolstering the Jordanian-European partnership and the regional situation, discussions attended by Minister of Planning and International Cooperation Zeina Toukan.

Safadi thanked MP David McAllister, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, and participating parliamentarians for the European Parliament's continued support for Jordan.

He highlighted the signing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement between Jordan and the European Union during His Majesty King Abdullah II's visit to the EU on January 29, 2025.

He highlighted the agreement's key components, associated aid packages and the necessity to begin implementing the roadmap designed to enhance cooperation in political relations, economic development, investment, security, defense and migration and refugee support.

Safadi thanked the European Parliament's relevant committees for their support of the first package of financial assistance to Jordan, amounting to €500 million, which is set for a vote within the next two months.

He emphasised the urgency of expediting procedures for an additional €500 million financial assistance package, already approved by the European Commission, to be presented to relevant committees before the end of the year.

The Minister reaffirmed Jordan's commitment to strengthening its friendly relations and partnership with the EU across various sectors.

For her part, Toukan outlined the cooperation programmes between Jordan and the EU, emphasising the Kingdom's ongoing reform initiatives.

She highlighted the importance of launching a roadmap for future cooperation to maximise the benefits derived from the comprehensive strategic partnership agreement. She presented economic opportunities in Jordan and ongoing development projects.

Safadi informed the European parliamentary committees about the repercussions of regional crises on Jordan, stressing the need for continuous international support to address the needs of refugees.

He condemned Israel's renewed aggression in the Gaza Strip, warning of the dire consequences of ongoing hostilities and the obstruction of humanitarian aid access.

Safadi called for adherence to the ceasefire agreement brokered by Egypt, Qatar and the United States, stating that a resumption of aggression would only exacerbate conflict and suffering.

He emphasised that a just peace, which secures the Palestinian people's right to freedom and a sovereign state based on the two-state solution, is the only pathway to lasting security for all involved.

In response to a question, he noted that all Arab nations collectively guarantee Israel's security within the context of a just peace based on the two-state solution.

Safadi also briefed attendees on the humanitarian consequences of the conflict in Gaza, cautioning against Israel’s actions that undermine the two-state solution through settlement expansion and land confiscation.

He underscored the importance of supporting the Syrian people in rebuilding their country on a foundation that guarantees unity, security and sovereignty while preserving the rights of all its communities.

He lauded the EU's efforts, particularly the recent Brussels Conference in Support of Syria, as a vital step in this direction.

Safadi stated that the Syrian people have the capability to rebuild their nation, stressing the necessity for international support during the transitional phase and advocating for the lifting of sanctions on Syria.

He warned of the implications of Israel's occupation of Syrian territory, reiterating the need for Israel's withdrawal and adherence to the 1947 Disengagement Agreement.

He highlighted the importance of supporting Lebanon, which is entering a critical phase of institutional activation following the election of a new president and prime minister.

Safadi emphasised the need to support the Lebanese army and for Israel to respect the ceasefire agreement with Lebanon.

Chairman McAllister reiterated the significance of the Jordan-European Union relationship, noting Jordan's vital role as a partner for the EU.

He praised Jordan's efforts to promote security, stability, and peace, affirming the European Union's ongoing support for Jordan as a reliable regional partner.

The representatives further acknowledged the strong ties with Jordan throughout their discussions.

//Petra// AK

18/03/2025 17:53:16