PM, German Defence Minister talk ties, cooperation

AMMAN — Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Bisher Al Khasawneh on Saturday met with German Defence Minister Christine Lambrecht, in the presence of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Maj, Gen. Yousef Huneiti, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

The meeting focused on areas of cooperation between the countries, especially in the fields of defence, training, and the exchange of military expertise, in addition to efforts to combat terrorism.

During the meeting, Khasawneh highlighted the Jordanian-German relations and the keenness to enhance joint cooperation in all fields.

Similarly, the German minister underlined the distinguished bilateral relations, pointing to Jordan's role under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah in supporting efforts to bring peace and security to the Middle East.

Also on Saturday, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Lambrecht held extensive discussions focused on means of advancing Jordanian-German "strategic" partnership, latest regional and international developments of common interest, as well as efforts geared towards regional crises.  

Safadi emphasised the importance of advancing Jordanian- German cooperation in various fields, notably the military, defence and security, within the framework of the European Union, according to a Foreign Ministry statement.

He also expressed appreciation for German support for the Kingdom, the second-largest donor to Jordan.

The two sides also reviewed regional developments, foremost of which the Palestinian causes, in addition to efforts towards resolving the crises in Syria, Yemen and Libya.

Talks also went offering assistance to Iraq's security and stability, in addition to discussing cooperation over countering terrorism.

Lambrecht, who is in her official visit to the Kingdom after she assumed post last month, expressed her country's keenness on bolstering mutual relations, voicing appreciation for His Majesty King Abdullah's efforts to overcome regional crises and challenges to enhance security and stability.