Amman: Senate President Faisal Fayez received President of Finland Alexander Stubb during his visit on Monday to the Senate, as part of the Finnish president's official visit to the Kingdom. During the meeting, Fayez stressed the depth of bilateral ties between the two countries, which have developed steadily over more than 60 years and are marked by strong friendship, mutual respect, cooperation, and coordination on issues of shared interest, particularly regional matters.
According to Jordan News Agency, Fayez highlighted His Majesty King Abdullah II's commitment to enhancing bilateral relations across political, economic, and investment fields, and promoting joint investment projects. These efforts are rooted in shared values such as social cohesion, democratic principles, social justice, and a dedication to progress, prosperity, and economic stability.
Fayez noted that bilateral relations have progressed significantly, especially after His Majesty's visit to Finland in 2006. Opportunities exist for partnerships in education, technology, and cybersecurity, areas where Finland excels. Such cooperation could lead to comprehensive future partnerships in education reform, teacher training, curriculum modernization, digital and vocational education, renewable energy, and healthcare.
The importance of strengthening parliamentary diplomacy was also emphasized, with Fayez advocating for exchange visits, expertise-sharing, and the creation of bilateral parliamentary committees. These initiatives aim to discuss shared interests and coordinate positions in international parliamentary forums.
Fayez underscored Jordan's view of Finland as an important partner within the European Union framework, which strengthens cooperation under the EU-Jordan strategic partnership. This partnership focuses on investment, trade, development projects, smart agriculture, and tourism.
Addressing regional challenges, Fayez outlined the main obstacles facing Jordan, including political and security resilience amidst regional crises and conflicts. He cited the ongoing Iranian-American-Israeli war and Israel's expansionist policies as contributing factors to economic challenges.
Fayez commended His Majesty the King's diplomatic efforts to resolve regional crises, emphasizing the two-state solution as the only viable path to peace in the region. He urged the international community to prevent Israeli attempts to alter the status quo in Jerusalem, Gaza, and the West Bank, warning that such actions could perpetuate conflict.
Fayez also condemned Iranian attacks on Jordan and the Arab Gulf states, calling for an end to the war and efforts to achieve a comprehensive de-escalation to restore regional security and peace. He praised Finland's support for His Majesty's peace efforts and Finland's calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, humanitarian aid delivery, and civilian protection.
Finnish President Stubb expressed appreciation for King Abdullah II's efforts to enhance regional security and stability, recognizing Jordan as a key stability pillar. He highlighted the similarities between Finland's and Jordan's roles in fostering dialogue and stability.
Stubb emphasized the potential for advancing Jordanian-Finnish relations, particularly in mining and technology. His visit aims to strengthen the existing ties between the two nations and expand their scope.
On regional issues, President Stubb reiterated that the two-state solution is essential for regional security and stability. He affirmed Finland's commitment to coordinating with Jordan to resolve regional crises through political and diplomatic means.