Brussels: Minister of Foreign and Expatriates Affairs Ayman Safadi met on Tuesday with key officials from the European Parliament to discuss the enhancement of Jordanian-European partnerships and the regional situation. The meeting included members from the Foreign Affairs Committee, the Relations with the Mashreq Committee, and the International Trade Committee, as well as rapporteurs of the European Parliament’s Macro-Financial Assistance Package for Jordan. Discussions were also attended by Minister of Planning and International Cooperation Zeina Toukan.
According to Jordan News Agency, Safadi expressed gratitude to MP David McAllister, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, and other participating parliamentarians for the European Parliament’s continued support for Jordan. He highlighted the recent signing of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement between Jordan and the European Union during King Abdullah II’s visit to the EU on January 29, 2025. This agreement outlines key components, associated aid packages, and a roadmap for enhanced cooperation in political relations, economic development, investment, security, defense, and migration and refugee support.
Safadi appreciated the European Parliament’s support for the first financial assistance package to Jordan, amounting to pound 500 million, which is set for a vote within the next two months. He emphasized the importance of expediting the procedures for an additional pound 500 million financial assistance package, already approved by the European Commission, to be presented to relevant committees before the end of the year. The Minister reiterated Jordan’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the EU across various sectors.
Minister Toukan elaborated on the cooperation programs between Jordan and the EU, highlighting ongoing reform initiatives in the Kingdom. She stressed the importance of launching a roadmap for future cooperation to maximize the benefits from the comprehensive strategic partnership agreement and presented economic opportunities and development projects in Jordan.
Safadi informed the European parliamentary committees about the impact of regional crises on Jordan, emphasizing the need for continuous international support to address the needs of refugees. He condemned Israel’s renewed aggression in the Gaza Strip, warning of the consequences of ongoing hostilities and the obstruction of humanitarian aid access. Safadi called for adherence to the ceasefire agreement brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, warning that resuming aggression would exacerbate conflict and suffering. He emphasized that a just peace, securing the Palestinian people’s right to freedom and a sovereign state based on the two-state solution, is the only pathway to lasting security for all involved.
In response to a question, Safadi noted that all Arab nations collectively guarantee Israel’s security within the context of a just peace based on the two-state solution. He also briefed attendees on the humanitarian consequences of the conflict in Gaza, cautioning against Israel’s actions that undermine the two-state solution through settlement expansion and land confiscation.
Safadi underscored the importance of supporting the Syrian people in rebuilding their country, emphasizing the need for international support during the transitional phase and advocating for the lifting of sanctions on Syria. He warned of the implications of Israel’s occupation of Syrian territory and reiterated the need for Israel’s withdrawal and adherence to the 1947 Disengagement Agreement.
Safadi highlighted the importance of supporting Lebanon during a critical phase of institutional activation following the election of new leaders. He emphasized supporting the Lebanese army and called for Israel to respect the ceasefire agreement with Lebanon. Chairman McAllister reaffirmed the significance of the Jordan-European Union relationship, acknowledging Jordan’s vital role as a partner for the EU. He praised Jordan’s efforts to promote security, stability, and peace, affirming the European Union’s ongoing support for Jordan as a reliable regional partner.
The discussions further acknowledged the robust ties between Jordan and the European Union.