Oakden appointed UK envoy to Jordan

AMMAN — The British government appointed Edward Oakden as the new British ambassador to Jordan, starting in April 2015, succeeding Peter Millett, according to a statement issued by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO).

According to the statement, Oakden served in 2013 as director for the Middle East with responsibility for the UK’s relationships with countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council, Iraq, Iran and Yemen.

He also served as British ambassador to the UAE for four years and was then appointed the UK’s ambassador for counter-terrorism. 

He was FCO’s director for defence and strategic threats for four years following the 9/11 attacks in the US. 

He has also served as private secretary to former prime minister John Major, the statement said.

He spent much of the rest of his career moving between the Middle East and London, with postings in Baghdad, Khartoum, Washington and Madrid.

“At this critical time for the region, the United Kingdom stands shoulder to shoulder with Jordan,” the statement quoted Oakden as saying. 

“Our two countries are the closest of allies, for reasons of both history and shared national interest. So it is an enormous honour to lead the UK’s work in Jordan as we strive together, for the security of our two countries above all, but also for the success of our businesses, our cultural ties and the multitude of links, formal and informal, which bind our peoples so strongly together. 

“The UK remains firmly committed to providing strong political and economic support for the security, stability and prosperity of Jordan.”