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King holds talks with Canadian PM in Ottawa

Discussions cover Jordan’s economic programme, bilateral ties

By JT - Nov 19,2019 - Last updated at Nov 19,2019

His Majesty King Abdullah meets with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Monday (Photo courtesy of Royal Court)

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah’s talks on Monday with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at Parliament Hill in Ottawa focused on the strategic partnership between Jordan and Canada and ways to bolster it in economy, trade,
and investment.

The bilateral talks, which were followed by expanded talks attended by senior officials from both countries, covered the economic programme implemented by the government to stimulate Jordan’s economy and promote investment, and to improve citizens’ standard of living, according to a Royal Court statement.

Speaking at the meeting, King Abdullah underscored the deep-rooted ties between Jordan and Canada, noting that ties “could not be in a better place than they are today”, emphasising Prime Minister Trudeau’s efforts in this regard.

His Majesty highlighted the outstanding cooperation between the two countries in defence, expressing his thanks to Canada for its support to Jordan in facing the challenge posed by refugees, and in coordinating on regional issues.

The King noted the fruitful discussions he had with Prime Minister Trudeau in Paris earlier this year.

For his part, Prime Minister Trudeau welcomed His Majesty, stressing that the visit is an opportunity to exchange views on various issues.

“I really have to say that His Majesty has been extraordinary in being such a strong leader at a time of so much uncertainty, whether it’s on refugees, or on human rights, or on economic growth and opportunities, you really have a tremendous, tremendous strong voice, and Canada is incredibly proud to be such a good friend to Jordan,” he added.

The expanded talks covered the importance of maintaining coordination and consultation on issues of mutual concern.

Discussions also tackled regional issues, foremost of which is the Palestinian cause, with the King stressing the need to reach just, lasting and comprehensive peace on the basis of the two-state solution, guaranteeing the establishment of the independent Palestinian state on the June 4, 1967 lines, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Discussing the Syrian crisis, His Majesty underlined the importance of reaching a political solution that safeguards Syria’s territorial integrity and the unity of its people, while guaranteeing the safe and voluntary return of refugees.

The meeting also covered efforts to reach political solutions to crises in the Middle East, as well as regional and international efforts to counter terrorism within a holistic approach.

Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, Adviser to His Majesty for Communication and Coordination Bisher Khasawneh, and Jordan’s Ambassador to Canada Majed Qatarneh attended the meeting.

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