FM, US National Security Council Coordinator talk ties, region

AMMAN — Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Ayman Safadi and US National Security Council Coordinator for the Middle East and North Africa Brett McGurk on Monday discussed Jordan-US relations, and efforts to solve regional crises.

The US National Security Council is the principal forum used by the President of the United States for consideration of national security, military and foreign policy matters.

Safadi and McGurk reaffirmed the "solidity of Jordan-US" relations, and discussed the continued expansion of cooperation to serve the interests of both countries, according to a Foreign Ministry statement.

Safadi praised aid from the US in support of Jordan's development process, and noted that the assistance will help the Kingdom cope with the consequences of regional crises. 

The minister also referred to the importance of the signing of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) that frames US assistance to Jordan, the most recent of which constitutes the largest amount of aid for the longest duration of the four MoUs signed by Amman and Washington.

McGurk affirmed his country's appreciation of the historic partnership with Jordan, and the Kingdom's role in promoting security and stability in the region. 

Safadi stressed the centrality of US leadership in efforts to activate the peace process and resolve the conflict on the basis of the two-state solution in accordance with international law and accredited references. 

The minister also valued Washington's clear position in support of the two-state solution, the US’ rejection of unilateral actions that undermine the solution, and its affirmation of the importance of respecting the historical and legal status quo in Jerusalem and its holy sites.

Safadi and McGurk agreed on the importance of continued cooperation and coordination regarding efforts to resolve regional crises and bring security, stability and development to the region.

Senior Adviser on Global Energy Security at the US Department of State Amos Hochstein also participated in the meeting.