Safadi stresses importance of "Israel's" commitment to ceasefire

The Minister of Foreign Affairs Ayman Safadi met today with the European Parliament's Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET), the Mashreq countries relations committee, and several members of the Committee on International Trade (INTA). The discussions focused on Jordan's financial assistance package.

Safadi, joined by Minister of Planning and International Cooperation Zeina Toukan, addressed the need to strengthen Jordanian-European partnerships and discussed regional developments.

He thanked MP David McAllister, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, and other members for the European Parliament's ongoing support for Jordan. Safadi emphasized the importance of signing the strategic partnership agreement during King Abdullah II's visit to the EU on January 29, 2025.

He highlighted key aspects of the agreement and associated aid packages, stressing the need to implement the roadmap for activating the new agreement, which aims to expand cooperation in political, economic, security, and refugee matters.

Safadi expressed gratitude for the European Parliament's support of the first 500 million euro assistance package, which will be voted on in the coming months. He urged swift action on the second 500 million euro package, which has been approved by the European Commission and is expected to be reviewed before the end of the year.

Toukan presented an overview of cooperation programs and reform initiatives in Jordan, reaffirming the commitment to maximize the benefits from the strategic partnership agreement.

Safadi informed the committees about the impact of regional crises on Jordan, emphasizing the need for ongoing international support to address refugee needs.

He condemned "Israel's" renewed aggression against Gaza and warned of the humanitarian consequences of continued conflict and obstruction of aid. Safadi stressed the importance of adhering to the ceasefire agreement facilitated by Egypt, Qatar, and the US.

He asserted that a just peace, based on a two-state solution, is essential for security for all parties. In response to a question, he noted that Arab nations collectively guarantee "Israel's" security within the framework of this peace.

Safadi also discussed the humanitarian fallout from the aggression on Gaza and warned against "Israeli" settlement expansion undermining the two-state solution.

He emphasized the need to support Syria in rebuilding on foundations that ensure unity and sovereignty while preserving the rights of all its people. He praised the EU's Brussels Conference to support Syria as a significant step in this direction.

Safadi called for lifting sanctions on Syria and warned of the implications of Israel's occupation of Syrian territory, urging respect for the 1974 disengagement agreement.

He highlighted the importance of supporting Lebanon in rebuilding its institutions after electing a new president and prime minister, emphasizing the need to support the Lebanese army.

Safadi reiterated the necessity for "Israel" to respect the ceasefire with Lebanon and withdraw from occupied territories.

MP McAllister affirmed the significance of the Jordan-EU relationship, praising Jordan as a key partner and commending King Abdullah II's efforts to enhance security and stability in the region. He assured the EU's support for Jordan as a reliable partner.