Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa met Jordan’s King Abdullah II in Amman to discuss border security and the return of Syrian refugees. King Abdullah emphasized the need for cooperation to tackle smuggling issues and support Syria’s reconstruction. Sharaa reaffirmed his commitment to addressing these challenges during their first official talks since he took power.
On Wednesday, Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa met with King Abdullah II of Jordan in Amman. According to the royal court, their discussions focused on various issues, including security measures along their shared border and strategies for facilitating the safe return of Syrian refugees. King Abdullah welcomed Sharaa at Marka airport before they proceeded to Raghadan Palace for their meeting, marking their first dialogue since Sharaa assumed his presidential position.
During their talks, King Abdullah emphasized the importance of addressing border security challenges, including the reduction of both weapons and drug smuggling. He highlighted the necessity of creating conducive conditions for the voluntary repatriation of Syrian refugees. Moreover, the king expressed Jordan’s support for Syria’s reconstruction, ensuring both unity and stability within the country.
The ongoing drug and weapons smuggling issues have been attributed to pro-Iranian militias operating in southern Syria during the previous regime of President Bashar al-Assad. President Sharaa affirmed his commitment to eradicating these problems. Additionally, King Abdullah condemned the recent Israeli strikes on southern Damascus and areas near the Jordanian border, which targeted Syrian military sites.
Sharaa’s visit represents his third foreign engagement following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad in December. His earlier trips included visits to Saudi Arabia and Turkey. Accompanying him was Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, who had previously engaged in discussions with Jordanian counterpart Ayman Safadi in January, focusing on cooperation against narcotics and weapons trafficking.
The illicit production of drugs, particularly the amphetamine-like stimulant captagon, has surged in Syria during the civil war, with evidence of significant governmental involvement post-Assad’s regime. Notably, Jordan maintained an open embassy in Damascus after the civil conflict began in 2011 and hosted an international summit on Syria shortly after Assad’s removal.
In summary, the meeting between Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa and King Abdullah II of Jordan serves to address critical issues related to border security and the repatriation of Syrian refugees. The discussions underscore Jordan’s support for a stable and unified Syria while also enforcing measures against drug and weapons trafficking. This dialogue is significant amidst ongoing tensions and the aftermath of Syria’s prolonged civil war.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
