FM speaks with Norwegian, Belgian counterparts over crisis in Syria

AMMAN — Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi on Monday spoke on the phone with Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Scharning Huitfeldt over developments related to the crisis in Syria.

The two sides discussed the role of Arab nations in finding a political solution to end the crisis, alleviate the suffering of the Syrian people and address threats to regional security, according to a Foreign Ministry statement. 

Safadi reiterated the Arab League Committee’s commitment, based on the outcomes of the Jeddah and Amman meetings, to engage with the Syrian government and explore progressive steps towards a political solution, while addressing the humanitarian, security and political consequences of the crisis, in accordance with the UN Security Council Resolution 2254.

He also emphasised Norway’s significant role in its capacity as President of the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee (AHLC), which primarily functions to coordinate the delivery of international aid to Palestinians, underscoring the country's ongoing efforts to provide support.

The minister expressed deep concern about the “alarming situation” in the occupied Palestinian territories, highlighting the continued deterioration and absence of a genuine effort towards a fair and sustainable peace based on the two-state solution and agreed-upon references.

Huitfeldt reaffirmed Norway's commitment  to collaborative action, notably  through the AHLC, for coordinating international assistance to the Palestinian people, as well as efforts to explore political avenues to resolve the conflict based on the two-state solution.

Both ministers emphasised the strong bonds of friendship between their respective countries and their shared commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation and regional coordination.

In a separate phone call, Safadi discussed the Arab region's contributions to resolving the crisis in Syria with the Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hadja Lahbib.

Safadi acquainted his Belgian counterpart with the Arab initiatives to find a political solution to the crisis. 

The foreign minister underscored the limitations of crisis management strategies and stressed the significance of the new Arab approach, which advocates for a gradual resolution that aligns with the aspirations of the Syrian people. 

This approach also aims to preserve Syria's unity, coherence and sovereignty while addressing remaining threats and creating conditions conducive to the safe and voluntary return of refugees.

The conversation between Safadi and Lahbib also covered bilateral relations, highlighting both ministers’ mutual commitment to expanding cooperation across various domains.