Safadi, German FM discuss support, regional developments

AMMAN — The Kingdom counts on aid that is systematic and based on a clear and fixed policy, Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said on Monday, expressing his appreciation for such support from Germany, Jordan's second-largest economic supporter.

During a joint press conference with his German counterpart Heiko Maas in Amman, Safadi said that protecting Iraq and its people and supporting its security and stability is a priority to Jordan and central to the security of the entire region, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

He also highlighted the importance of dialogue and de-escalation of tensions in the region, which is witnessing "immense and increasing" challenges, noting that any escalation would have a dangerous impact on the Middle East, Europe and the world.

The minister also referred to cooperation with Germany in the war on terrorism, overcoming regional crises and realising security, adding that the war on Daesh is still ongoing, especially since the terror group continues to pose security and ideological threats.

Safadi praised Germany's role in supporting the two-state solution, noting that the cause remains a priority in Jordanian-German dialogues and bilateral relations in light of the continuous German support to UNRWA.

Regarding Libya, Safadi said that what is required is supporting stability so that a solution that can be reached by the conflicting parties without foreign interference.  

For his part, Maas noted that Germany has launched the “Berlin process” to stop armament in Libya and reach a ceasefire among conflicting parties.

Maas also stressed that the Kingdom is an important mediator for regional stability, calling for supporting Jordan’s security. 

Germany will continue to support Jordan in hosting large numbers of refugees, he noted.

Maas said that Germany is closely following up on developments in Iran, and that Iranians have the right to express their opinions without fear.

At the same time, the German minister said, Iran should not interfere in the domestic affairs of other countries, mainly Iraq.

He also called for keeping international forces in Iraq to prevent the country from becoming a “fertile ground for terrorism”.