Jordan Engages with New Syrian Leadership Amidst Ongoing Stability Efforts

Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi met with Syria’s new leader, Ahmed Al-Sharaa, signaling renewed diplomatic engagement following the Syrian civil war. This marks the first visit by a senior Jordanian official since Assad’s regime change. Jordan emphasizes support for Syrian stability and has seen early signs of refugee repatriation, despite ongoing border security concerns.

On Monday, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi engaged in discussions with Syria’s new leader, Ahmed Al-Sharaa, in Damascus. This interaction marks a significant diplomatic development following the ousting of Bashar Assad. Details regarding the topics discussed during the meeting were not disclosed, though it represents the first prominent visit by a Jordanian official post-Assad’s regime.

Jordan, positioned immediately south of Syria, recently facilitated a diplomatic summit that included Arab, Turkish, EU, and US officials advocating for an inclusive resolution to the Syrian conflict. Sharaa, representing the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham, has actively welcomed various international representatives in recent weeks.

In an affirmation of bilateral ties, Jordanian government spokesman Mohamed Momani highlighted the kingdom’s support for the aspirations of the Syrian populace and their commitment to ensuring the sovereignty of Syria’s territorial integrity. Momani stated that the stability of Syria is paramount for Jordan, as it directly correlates with security along their shared border.

Encouragingly, there are signs that some of the 1.3 million Syrian refugees residing in Jordan have begun returning to their homeland, with over 7,000 reported repatriations. Concurrently, Jordan has increased security measures along its border, primarily targeting drug trafficking, notably the amphetamine-like stimulant captagon, which is in high demand within the affluent Gulf region.

The Syrian civil war, which erupted in 2011, has resulted in widespread devastation and an influx of refugees, particularly into neighboring Jordan. This ongoing crisis has significantly affected regional dynamics, prompting Jordan and other nations to reconsider their diplomatic stances. The emergence of new Syrian leadership under Ahmed Al-Sharaa reflects a shift in control from the Assad regime, offering potential for international engagement aimed at achieving peace and stability in the war-torn country. Jordan’s active participation in diplomatic discussions underscores its strategic interest in fostering safe conditions along its borders and supporting the sovereignty of Syria.

In summary, the meeting between Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Syrian leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa signifies a noteworthy development in Jordan-Syria relations following the upheaval in Syrian governance. Jordan continues to advocate for peace and stability in Syria, recognizing the importance of these factors for its own national security. As the situation evolves, the movement of Syrian refugees back to their homeland indicates a potential shift towards normalization, although challenges remain, particularly concerning border security against drug trafficking.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com