King, UK PM discuss enhancing strategic ties

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah and United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson, during a meeting in London on Thursday, highlighted the deeply-rooted ties between Jordan and the UK, as this year marks the centenary of their diplomatic relations.

During a meeting at 10 Downing Street, King Abdullah and Prime Minister Johnson discussed the strategic bilateral relations, as well as regional and international developments, according to a Royal Court statement.

The meeting covered means of strengthening economic, trade and defence cooperation.

His Majesty commended the United Kingdom’s efforts in hosting the UN Climate Change Conference UK 2021 (COP26), adding that he is looking forward to participating in it.

The meeting also covered the importance of stepping up regional and international efforts in the war against terrorism, within a holistic approach.

His Majesty reaffirmed the need to achieve just and comprehensive peace, on the basis of the two-state solution, guaranteeing the establishment of an independent, sovereign, and viable Palestinian state on the June 4, 1967 lines with East Jerusalem as its capital, as the only way to achieve regional stability and security.

The King also underlined Jordan’s steadfast efforts to safeguard Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, under the Hashemite Custodianship, stressing the need to maintain support for UNRWA.

For his part, Prime Minister Johnson expressed the UK’s support for regional economic projects, commending Jordan’s hosting of refugees, including Syrians, and providing them with health and educational services.

Johnson also lauded Jordan’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions, and its efforts in mitigating the impact of climate change.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, Director of the Office of His Majesty Jafar Hassan, and Jordan’s Ambassador to the UK Manar Dabbas attended the meeting.