Japan, Jordan discuss bilateral ties, regional developments

AMMAN — Jordan and Japan on Monday discussed means to enhance bilateral relations, the latest regional developments and ways to combat extremism and terrorism.

Royal Court Chief Fayez Tarawneh met with Japanese State Minister for Foreign Affairs Kentaro Sonoura, who is visiting the Kingdom as part of a regional tour, and expressed Jordan’s keenness to further boost Jordanian-Japanese relations at all levels.

Tarawneh voiced the Kingdom’s appreciation for the support Tokyo provides to help Amman implement development projects, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

He also reviewed Jordan’s stance towards regional and international developments and the efforts it exerts, along with international partners, to continue dealing with these issues until peace, security and stability are reached. 

The officials discussed endeavours to reach a political solution to the Syrian crisis, as well as efforts to combat terrorism with a holistic approach.

Sonoura voiced his country’s appreciation for Jordanian support to regional and international efforts to deal with current crises, and commended the Kingdom’s efforts to handle the repercussions of these crises’, in particular by hosting Syrian refugees and providing them with necessary services.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign and Expatriate Affairs Minister Nasser Judeh also met with Sonoura to discuss the latest developments regarding the Palestinian issue, and the Japanese efforts for peace in the region.

They also discussed the conditions in Syria, Yemen, Iraq and Libya, underlining the importance of reaching political solutions in these countries, Petra reported.

As for hosting Syrian refugees in Jordan, Judeh reiterated the importance of helping the Kingdom continue its humanitarian duty, calling on the international community to shoulder its responsibility in this regard.

The Japanese official said his country would continue its efforts to achieve peace in the region as well as its economic projects.

Planning and International Cooperation Minister Imad Fakhoury also met with the Japanese diplomat, and briefed him on the financial hardships the Kingdom is experiencing due to the Syrian crisis, according to a ministry statement.

Sonoura expressed Japan’s keenness to continue supporting Jordan to help to maintain its economic status, security and stability, under the prevailing regional conditions.

Since 2009, Japan, one of the biggest development partners of Jordan, has extended more than $1 billion in financial assistance to the Kingdom, including some $491 million as grants, and $530 million as soft loans, the ministry statement added.