Future of refugees lies in their homelands, says FM

AMMAN — Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi on Sunday met with UN Under Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths.

Safadi emphasised the importance of strengthening cooperation between Jordan and the UN to meet the needs of refugees and create favourable conditions for the safe and voluntary return to their homeland.

Safadi briefed Griffiths on ongoing efforts within the Arab political track to achieve a political solution to the Syrian crisis, addressing its humanitarian, security and political implications.

The two also reviewed Jordan’s challenges as a host country, with Safadi noting that the challenges associated with hosting refugees is an international responsibility, and is not solely the responsibility of host countries. 

Providing refugees with decent living conditions until they can return to their homelands is a humanitarian obligation, and a regional and international security necessity, Safadi said.

"The future of Syrian refugees lies in their own country, which necessitates taking practical steps to create the environment necessary for their return,” he added.

Jordan has surpassed its capacity to accommodate refugees, Safadi stressed, warning against a decline in international support for them.

The discussions also addressed the efforts to resolve the Syrian crisis and the collaboration mechanisms between the Kingdom and UN organisations to address the challenges of the Syrian refugee situation, as well as the latest regional and international developments.

Griffiths expressed his appreciation for the significant humanitarian role Jordan plays in hosting refugees and providing them with a decent life.