FM, US Assistant Secretary Leaf talk ties, region

AMMAN — Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi on Saturday received US Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Barbara Leaf.

Both sides affirmed the strategic partnership between the Kingdom and the United States, emphasising its significance in fostering regional security and stability, according to a Foreign Ministry statement.

Safadi expressed gratitude for the US’ unwavering support to Jordan, particularly in addressing economic challenges and the impact of regional crises on the country.

Leaf acknowledged the pivotal role of Jordan in regional crisis resolution efforts.

During their meeting, Safadi and the US official discussed several regional issues, including the Palestinian cause, the Syrian crisis resolution endeavours and the challenges related to hosting Syrian refugees.

Safadi underscored the vital leadership role played by the US in halting the dangerous deterioration in the occupied Palestinian territories. He emphasised the importance of achieving a ceasefire as a crucial step towards a genuine political solution based on the two-state solution, in accordance with international legitimacy resolutions and accredited terms of reference.

Moreover, Safadi highlighted the imperative of ceasing all illegitimate measures that undermine the two-state solution. He emphasised the need for fulfilling the commitments made during the Aqaba and Sharm El Sheikh summits.

He further emphasised the importance of activating efforts aimed at reaching a political resolution to the crisis in Syria. He highlighted the Arab effort initiated after the Jeddah and Amman meetings, aimed at contributing to a solution in line with a step-by-step approach and UN Resolution 2254.

Safadi stressed the urgency of intensifying efforts to create the necessary conditions for the safe and voluntary return of Syrian refugees. He cautioned against the repercussions of declining international support for refugees and host countries, as well as the relevant United Nations organisations involved.

Providing a dignified livelihood for refugees is a shared international responsibility, extending beyond the host countries, he said, adding that the refugees' future is in their homeland, which requires investing in the necessary infrastructure to facilitate their return, aligning with the UN-approved early recovery and stabilisation mechanisms.

Safadi and Leaf reiterated commitment to sustaining cooperation, coordination and joint efforts to strengthen the friendship between Jordan and the US, while actively contributing to resolving regional crises.