King renews call for combating terror worldwide

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah and Italian President Sergio Mattarella on Thursday stressed the need for boosting coordination and cooperation among the various countries and stakeholders in confronting terrorism and radicalism, which, they said, have become the main threat to regional and global security. 

During their talks at the presidential palace in Rome, the King asserted that combating terrorism must be in accordance with a comprehensive vision that covers all the hot spots of terrorism and extremism worldwide, according to a Royal Court statement. 

The two leaders stressed the need to arrive at a political solution to the Syrian crisis that would end the suffering of the Syrian people, preserve Syria's sovereignty and eliminate the repercussions of the crisis.

King Abdullah highlighted the heavy burdens Jordan is shouldering as it struggles with the crisis of the Syrian refugees, pointing out the ensuing security challenges and pressures placed on the country’s healthcare, education and infrastructure. 

The meeting, which continued over a lunch banquet hosted by the Italian president in honour of Their Majesties King Abdullah and Queen Rania, and the accompanying delegation, also addressed developments in Libya and ways to deal with them, in a manner that safeguards the security and stability of Libya and North Africa. 

The two leaders expressed their commitment to developing political and economic relations, especially in light of Jordan’s “advanced status” with the EU. 

Mattarella expressed his appreciation of His Majesty’s visit, which, he said, reflects Jordan’s commitment to strengthening the Italian-Jordanian relations, noting that Italy is looking forward for furthering its cooperation with the Kingdom, in a manner that positively reflects on the two countries and their shared interests. 

The president noted that Jordan plays an important regional role, not only in dealing with Middle East issues, but also with Mediterranean and global issues.  

The Italian president expressed his appreciation of the King’s vision in dealing with the phenomenon of global terrorism and the need to combat it everywhere.

 He also expressed his appreciation of the Kingdom’s efforts in shouldering the burdens of Syrian refugees, noting that the international community should shoulder its responsibilities in this regard. He noted that the two leaders see eye-to-eye on ways to deal with the challenges facing the region. 

Moreover, Mattarella lauded Jordan’s efforts, led by His Majesty, in supporting interfaith dialogue and highlighting the true tenets of Islam and its tolerance. 

His Majesty arrived back home later in the day, after taking part in the Mediterranean Dialogue conference in Rome, where he also met with Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi over regional and bilateral issues.