Jordan, Belgium set to expand strategic partnership

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday in Brussels held talks with King Philippe of Belgium, focusing on boosting bilateral relations as well as regional and international developments, according to a Royal Court statement. 

During the talks attended by Her Majesty Queen Rania and Queen Mathilde of Belgium, in addition to senior officials from both countries, the two leaders voiced their keenness to enhance bilateral relations, especially in regard to economy and investment. 

They discussed strategic partnership with His Majesty commending Belgium's role within the European Union in supporting the development process, in addition to its role in the London donor conference to support countries hosting Syrian refugees, particularly Jordan. 

Discussions also covered regional and international challenges, war on terrorism, the repercussions of the Syrian crisis and efforts to revive Palestinian-Israeli peace negotiations. 

For his part, King Philippe voiced his country’s interest in establishing more strategic partnerships with Jordan and supporting it to face the different challenges resulting from the crises in the region. 

King Philippe presented the Order of Leopold to King Abdullah and to Queen Rania whereas His Majesty honoured King Philippe with the Order of Al Hussein Bin Ali and Queen Mathilde with the Order of Al Nahda of the First Class. 

King Abdullah and Queen Rania visited the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and were received by senior officials and officers. 

King Abdullah also discussed bilateral relations with Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel, in addition to ways to develop economic and investment opportunities for the benefit of both countries and benefitting from the simplified rules of origin between Jordan and the EU. 

During the meeting, His Majesty stressed the Kingdom’s stance to counter terrorism through a comprehensive strategy of boosting the dialogue of coexistence among followers of different religions and presenting the true image of Islam as a faith of peace and understanding, especially in Europe, which is home to a large number of Muslims. 

For his part, Michel voiced his country’s interest in boosting bilateral cooperation and helping the Kingdom to deal with the challenges facing the region, especially the repercussions of the Syrian crisis.

He also announced exempting Jordan from military debts in appreciation of its role in preserving security and stability in the region and the world.