Razzaz, UN’s Espinosa talk Palestinian cause, humanitarian cooperation

AMMAN — Prime Minister Omar Razzaz and President of the UN General Assembly María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés on Monday discussed Jordan's relation with UN agencies, especially in dealing with the repercussions of the regional crises on Jordan. 

The meeting was attended by Minister of State for Prime Ministry Affairs Sami Daoud and a delegation accompanying Espinosa, who is currently on a four-day visit to Jordan, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

For his part, Razzaz reiterated that the lack of a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian cause is the root of most clashes in the Middle East and the reason for a lack of regional stability. 

He also highlighted Jordan's role in hosting refugees over the past few decades, pointing out the importance of having the international community shoulder its responsibilities towards Syrian refugees and support host communities. 

The premier reviewed programmes implemented in cooperation with UN agencies to ensure young refugees have proper educational opportunities, briefing Espinosa on programmes the government is implementing to provide young people with the necessary skills, in addition to supporting women's participation in the labour market. 

For her part, the UN General Assembly president highlighted Jordan’s role under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah to enhance and boost international stability and security and achieve peace in the region. 

She also voiced the UN's appreciation of the Kingdom's humanitarian role in hosting refugees and providing relief services.

On the sidelines of visit, Espinosa has met with Lower House Speaker Atef Tarawneh at Parliament, during which he highlighted the importance of continued support to UNRWA to continue its role in providing healthcare and education to refugees. 

Tarawneh said that Jordan, under King Abdullah’s leadership, will continue to defend the Palestinian cause and protect Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, and it will also continue coordinating efforts with partners around the world to ensure UNRWA remains supported.

The Palestinians still suffer because of the Israeli occupation's practices, the Lower House speaker said, noting that Israel continues to drive Palestinians out of their land, arrest them and destroy their homes, violating all international resolutions.

Therefore, Tarawneh said that international institutions and entities should shoulder their responsibility in regards to implementing resolutions, noting that if Israel continues to violate the resolutions, the agency’s efforts to spread peace and security will be for naught. 

For her part, Espinosa said the UN will continue to support UNRWA in its role to support refugees.

She also highlighted the importance of the UN partnership with Jordan in boosting sustainable development and empowering women, commending Jordan's commitment to international resolutions, especially those on climate change. 

Espinosa also met with the Lower House’s Health and Environment Committee and MP Issa Khashashneh, during which he highlighted Jordan's need for support to face environmental and health problems.

Khashashneh also noted the UN's role in helping Jordan face the refugee crisis and its repercussions, Petra reported, adding that waste management in Jordan has become a challenge and requires intensified efforts find proper solutions through programmes and projects. 

Minister of State for Media Affairs Jumana Ghunaimat also received Espinosa at her office. 

The two sides addressed ways to enhance cooperation between Jordan and relevant UN institutions towards empowering women through a number of high-priority programmes, Petra reported.