GCC, US underscore Jordan’s role in safeguarding Jerusalem holy sites

AMMAN — Foreign ministers of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations and the United States have reiterated their commitment to strengthening relations across various sectors, including defence and security cooperation, and fostering a collaborative approach to address regional issues.

In a joint statement released following their meeting in New York on Wednesday, the ministers emphasised commitment to building upon the progress achieved in previous ministerial gatherings, including the most recent one on June 7.

Regarding the Palestinian cause, the statement highlighted the significance of achieving a fair, lasting and comprehensive peace in the region based on the two-state solution and the 1967 lines.

The statement also underscored Jordan's role in safeguarding the historical status quo of Jerusalem's holy shrines, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra.

The ministers expressed their support for the Palestinian Authority through initiatives aimed at enhancing the living conditions of Palestinians through humanitarian assistance and  supporting efforts geared towards bolstering the Palestinian economy.

On the Syrian situation, the ministers reaffirmed their commitment to push forward a comprehensive political resolution to the Syrian crisis that upholds Syria's unity, sovereignty, and meets the aspirations of its people.

They commended Arab initiatives for addressing the crisis in a phased manner, in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254, as agreed upon during meetings of the Arab Ministerial Committee on Syria in Amman on May 1 and in Cairo on August 15.

The statement stressed the importance of establishing secure conditions for the safe, dignified and voluntary return of refugees and displaced individuals, in accordance with UN criteria, as well as the significance of providing essential support to Syrian refugees and their host communities.