Jordan ‘prepared’ to take part in Iraq reconstruction — PM

AMMAN — Jordan is willing and fully prepared to contribute to Iraq’s reconstruction process, Prime Minister Hani Mulki told visiting Iraqi Foreign Minister Ibrahim Jaafari on Sunday.

At their meeting, the premier said that Jordan “in light of its proximity to Iraq and vast experiences in various fields can carry out the necessary consultations with Iraqis and other Arab stakeholders to contribute effectively in the rebuilding process”, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

Mulki said that after its victory over terrorists, a fight that Jordan has “staunchly supported”, Iraq has regained its regional role and is back on its feet to boost its economy.

Jaafari, who was accompanied by an official delegation, thanked Jordan for backing his country while at war with terror groups and facilitating the life of Iraqis living in the Kingdom, including allowing these expats to cast their votes in Iraq’s parliamentary elections that will take place later this month. 

He said Jordanian businesses are welcome to invest in Iraq when security and stability are fully restored to the war-torn country. 

Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi echoed Mulki’s remarks at a separate meeting with his Iraqi counterpart.

He said Jordan would put all its capabilities at the disposal of its eastern neighbour as it launches the reconstruction process.

He stressed that Jordan realises the importance of Iraq restoring its role as a “cornerstone” of the region’s stability and in serving the common causes of the Arab and Muslim nations. 

He congratulated Jaafari on his country’s victory against the Daesh terror group, stressing that it was a victory of all humanity over the “darkness and delusion” of the terrorists that was achieved by the sacrifices of Iraqis. 

The two ministers stressed the keenness of Jordan and Iraq to take all possible measures to boost cooperation in all fields, Petra said.

They highlighted the progress made to implement agreements signed previously to enhance trade exchange and investments, highlighting the reopening of Turaibil border crossing after a three-year closure blamed on the security situation.

The two diplomats also looked into developments in a number of regional issues including the Palestinian cause, the Syrian crisis and the war against terrorism.

On the Palestinian issue, Safadi and Jaafari agreed that the two-state solution is the only way to end the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and is key to security and stability in the Middle East.

They also discussed efforts to end the Syrian crisis with a political solution.

Jaafari expressed Iraq’s appreciation for the Jordanian support in fighting terrorism and welcomed Jordan’s prospective role in reconstructing his country, which has been estimated at $200 billion.

The two officials later held a press conference in which they reiterated the two countries’’ willingness to enhance their ties at all levels. 

Safadi told reporters that it is a “matter of time” before the two countries restore the level of cooperation they used to have in the past.