Annexation tops FM meetings with Belgium, Spain counterparts, UN’s Mladenov

AMMAN — Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Defence Philippe Goffin on Monday discussed efforts to reach an effective international stance to prevent the Israeli decision to annex Palestinian territories and protect the peace process. 

During the ministers' discussions over the phone, Safadi acquainted Goffin with the Jordanian position rejecting the annexation of Palestinian lands, emphasising that the move, if implemented, "will constitute a flagrant violation to international law and undermine the two-state solution and all pillars that have shaped the peace process", according to a ministry statement.   

Goffin reiterated his country’s stance rejecting the annexation plans and committing to the two-state solution as "the only means to reach an end to the conflict".

Safadi praised Belgium's position and stressed the EU's role in shaping an international mobilisation to stop the annexation and resume serious negotiations.

Meanwhile, the two ministers highlighted the importance of solidarity in combatting the COVID-19 pandemic and its repercussions. The Belgian diplomat expressed appreciation for the medical assistance that Amman sent to Brussels following a telephone call between His Majesty King Abdullah and King Philippe of Belgium.

Both ministers also agreed to continue developing bilateral cooperation as part of the Jordanian-EU partnership, as well as continuing the war on terrorism under the international coalition. They also welcomed further cooperation over regional issues in a way that contributes to realising security and stability in the Middle East.

Safadi praised Belgium's support for Jordan in facing economic challenges and shouldering the burden of hosting refugees, expressing appreciation for Brussels’ assistance to UNRWA. 

Also on Monday, Safadi spoke over the telephone with his Spanish counterpart Arancha González Laya and UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Nickolay Mladenov over the need to intensify efforts aimed at halting the annexation decision. He reiterated during the meeting that the move is a breach of international law and undermines peace endeavours.

Safadi also commended the stances of Madrid and the EU stressing their rejection of the annexation decision and calling for adherence to international law and the two-state solution, according to another Foreign Ministry statement.

During the phone calls, the minister also highlighted the importance of the EU’s role and the UN’s efforts to spare the region the "catastrophic consequences" of the annexation decision, and their endeavours to realise a fair and comprehensive peace according to the two-state solution.