Razzaz calls UNHCR visit ‘clear’ recognition of Jordan’s humanitarian role

AMMAN — Prime Minister Omar Razzaz on Thursday met with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Filippo Grandi to discuss Jordan’s efforts to host refugees.

The envoy's visit, which coincides with World Refugee Day, is a “clear” recognition of the efforts the Kingdom, its leadership and people, has exerted to host refugees, not only in the last few years, but for more than 70 years, Razzaz said.

Razzaz stressed that Jordan always performs its humanitarian duty in receiving refugees of all nationalities, who are searching for security and stability, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

He also urged the international community to continue supporting the Kingdom so it can provide for Syrian refugees, referring to strains on Jordan’s education and healthcare systems, economy and infrastructure.

The refugee crisis is not a short-term issue and has a negative effect on host countries and communities, which requires the solidarity of all to face it, the premier said.

Razzaz also expressed the Kingdom's appreciation for the commission’s role in raising international awareness on the refugee crisis and its effect on Jordan.

During the meeting, Grandi affirmed the date of the visit as a message to the world that Jordan plays a positive role in hosting refugees.

The high commissioner also highlighted the first global refugee forum, scheduled for this coming December in Geneva, and invited Jordan to attend the forum to discuss the challenges of hosting those affected by conflict.

Minister of Planning and International Cooperation and Minister of State for Economic Affairs Mohamad Al-Ississ also attended the meeting.

Also on Thursday, Interior Minister Salameh Hammad met with Grandi to discuss possible means of supporting Jordan to help  it bear the repercussions of refugee influxes, Petra said.

In this regard, the minister stressed that the Kingdom would continue to carry out this role, “which is closely linked to the level of support it receives to deal with the effects of the crises” in a positive way.

The UN official noted that his visit to the Kingdom aimed to shed light on its support for refugees, and urge the international community to help Jordan continue its humanitarian efforts and alleviate pressure on its economy and infrastructure.

The responsibility of hosting refugees is not only a duty for Jordan, he said, urging the international community and donor countries to commit to their pledges in this regard.