Jordan and Syria Leaders Commit to Strengthening Border Security Against Trafficking

Jordan’s King Abdullah and Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa met to enhance border security against arms and drug trafficking. The leaders emphasized coordination to tackle smuggling issues and expressed support for a political transition in Syria. Jordan is prepared to assist Syria in rebuilding and addressing energy shortages.

AMMAN (Reuters) – On Wednesday, King Abdullah of Jordan and Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa convened to discuss enhancing security measures along their shared border, primarily targeting arms and drug trafficking. The meeting, held in Amman, included Jordan’s condemnation of recent Israeli strikes on southern Damascus, which marked an escalation in Israel’s military activities against Syrian targets.

Both leaders recognized the importance of closely coordinating to combat the smuggling issues that have plagued Jordan due to the influence of pro-Iranian militias during the prior administration of Bashar al-Assad. President Sharaa assured King Abdullah of his commitment to eradicating these illicit activities.

This meeting represents President Sharaa’s third official foreign engagement since assuming leadership following the ousting of the Iran-affiliated Assad regime. With strained relations between Assad and many neighboring Arab nations throughout the Syrian war, Jordan remains hopeful for a stable political transition in Syria to avoid repeating past chaos.

King Abdullah expressed his support for a national dialogue conference recently held in Damascus, describing it as vital for Syria’s reconstruction and vital to meet the aspirations of its citizens. Furthermore, Jordan has pledged to assist Syria in overcoming its energy shortages by providing electricity and natural gas supplies.

In summary, the meeting between King Abdullah and President Sharaa highlighted the urgent need for enhanced border security between Jordan and Syria, amid ongoing concerns regarding smuggling and regional stability. Both leaders emphasized cooperation in combating these challenges while expressing a shared vision for Syria’s political transition and reconstruction efforts. Jordan’s assistance in addressing Syria’s energy crisis further demonstrates its commitment to fostering regional stability.

Original Source: gazette.com