Moscow: Minister of Foreign and Expatriates Affairs Ayman Safadi held comprehensive talks in Moscow with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov, focusing on enhancing cooperation and addressing key regional developments.
According to Jordan News Agency, Safadi and Lavrov emphasized the commitment of Jordan and Russia to strengthen their strategic relationship, as directed by King Abdullah II and President Vladimir Putin. The discussions included expanding collaboration across the economic, trade, tourism, and cultural sectors.
The diplomats announced preparations for the seventh meeting of the Jordanian-Russian Joint Committee for Trade and Economic Cooperation, set to convene in Moscow before the year ends. In a significant move, both countries signed an agreement to waive entry visa requirements for their citizens, aiming to boost tourism and economic ties.
The ministers reviewed regional crises, with a particular focus on Gaza. Safadi called for an immediate and lasting ceasefire, the end of the Israeli blockade, and unimpeded humanitarian aid access. He warned of the severe consequences of the ongoing Israeli actions in Gaza on regional stability, highlighting issues in the occupied West Bank, Lebanon, and Syria.
During a joint press conference, Safadi stated that Jordan, under King Abdullah’s leadership, is actively working to halt the violence in Gaza and prevent further humanitarian catastrophe. He acknowledged Russia’s support for a ceasefire and efforts to allow aid into Gaza.
Safadi reiterated Jordan’s support for the Arab Peace Initiative and a two-state solution, advocating for the creation of a sovereign Palestinian state along the June 4, 1967, lines with East Jerusalem as its capital as the only path to lasting peace. He criticized the Israeli government’s policies, which he said aim to perpetuate conflict and undermine peace prospects.
Safadi addressed the situation in the occupied West Bank, condemning Israeli settlement activity, land confiscations, and attacks on religious sites. He accused Israel of pressuring the Orthodox Church and attempting to alter the historical and legal status quo in Jerusalem.
Regarding Syria, Safadi reaffirmed Jordan’s support for Syria’s unity, sovereignty, and stability. He warned against Israeli actions on Syrian territory, which he said could fuel chaos and undermine regional security. He outlined efforts, in coordination with Syria and the United States, to stabilize southern Syria, especially As-Suwayda Governorate, following recent unrest.
Safadi expressed Jordan’s commitment to ensuring safety, rights, and dignity for all Syrians and maintaining Syria’s unity. He praised the Amman Statement, which calls for cooperation between the Syrian government and UN agencies to investigate violations, deliver humanitarian aid, and reintegrate Suwayda into the broader Syrian state. A Jordanian-American-Syrian committee has been established to uphold the ceasefire and advance these goals.
On Ukraine, Safadi welcomed U.S.-Russia dialogue and reiterated Jordan’s support for a political solution based on international law and legitimacy. In response to questions, Safadi noted that Israel’s expansionist policies threaten the entire region. He urged the international community to pressure Israel to accept a ceasefire proposal and deliver urgently needed humanitarian aid to Gaza.
He called for recognition of the Palestinian state as a step toward peace, referencing a recent international conference co-hosted by Saudi Arabia and France where 125 countries supported Palestinian statehood.
Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov expressed Moscow’s desire to deepen economic, trade, educational, and cultural ties with Jordan. He confirmed plans to hold the seventh session of the Joint Committee later this year and noted Russia’s ongoing support for Jordanian students and cultural exchange programs.
Lavrov emphasized alignment with Jordan on key regional issues, including Gaza and the occupied West Bank. He called for intensified efforts to end the humanitarian crisis and supported the resumption of peace negotiations aimed at establishing a Palestinian state.
Lavrov highlighted the role of Russian Orthodox pilgrims and appreciated Jordan’s care of religious sites, particularly the Baptism Site at Al-Maghtas. He expressed anticipation of King Abdullah II’s participation in the first Russian-Arab summit this October and a potential meeting with President Putin.
Regarding cultural exchange, Lavrov mentioned that approximately 1,500 Jordanian students are currently studying in Russia, reflecting the strength of educational ties between the two countries. He noted the active participation of Russian-Jordanian national artistic groups in cultural initiatives.