Fayez, Qatar’s Shura Council Deputy Speaker talk parliamentary cooperation

AMMAN — Senate President Faisal Al Fayez on Sunday met with Qatari Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council Hamda Al Sulaiti over strengthening parliamentary cooperation. 

The meeting, also attended by First Deputy of the Senate President Samir Rafai, covered various regional issues, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra. 

Fayez reaffirmed Jordan's commitment to advancing Jordanian-Qatari relations in various fields, highlighting the Senate's keenness to enhance parliamentary cooperation and bilateral relations. He also emphasised the Senate’s eagerness to work with the Shura Council to enhance Arab parliamentary action.

In line with Jordan's unwavering commitment to regional stability, Fayez reiterated the Kingdom's stance against interference in the internal affairs of Gulf Arab countries. 

Sulaiti expressed her appreciation and pride in the flourishing Qatari-Jordanian relations, noting that the council is committed to working hand-in-hand with the Jordanian Senate to strengthen parliamentary relations.

Both leaders called on the United Nations to issue a binding resolution criminalising any acts involving insulting religious figures or desecrating holy books. They also urged the Arab Parliamentary Union and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation to play an active role in combating disrespectful actions towards religion. 

They called for the establishment of a parliamentary committee to show that these practices have implications on international peace.

They further stressed that such actions should not be regarded as freedom of expression, as they incite hatred, racism and sectarianism.

First Deputy Speaker of the Lower House, MP Ahmed Khalieleh, also spoke with Sulaiti regarding bolstering parliamentary cooperation.

The meeting covered the importance of coordination on shared stances, with the Palestinian cause at the forefront. 

Also on Sunday, Minister of Education Azmi Mahafzah, during his meeting with Sulaiti, affirmed Jordan's readiness to provide faculty members with educational expertise to contribute to the advancement of education in Qatar. 

Sulaiti praised the significant role played by Jordanian educational professionals, acknowledging their contributions in teaching, curriculum development and teacher training, all of which have been instrumental in the progress of Qatar's education sector.