Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa is visiting Jordan to meet King Abdullah, focusing on border security and economic ties. The visit comes after Israeli calls for demilitarization in southern Syria, raising concerns in Damascus. Discussions will cover drug trafficking and stability in the region, as well as Jordan’s support in Syria’s reconstruction efforts.
Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa will meet with Jordanian King Abdullah on Tuesday as part of his third foreign trip since becoming president of the transitional government. Jordan and Syria share a border and mutual interests, particularly after hosting nearly a million Syrian refugees during the civil war and supporting Syrian rebels. This visit is significant in addressing security concerns and economic ties between the two nations.
Following Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s remarks about the need for demilitarization in southern Syria, Sharaa’s visit raises concerns in Damascus about the implications for the border area. Southern Syria has historically been a region of conflict, controlled by various factions, including Syrian rebels and ISIS affiliates, prompting Jordan’s interest in security stability.
Key areas such as Daraa, which were central to the Syrian rebellion, and regions around the Golan Heights are vital for security against ISIS and Iranian militias. The region has also become a drug trafficking corridor, affecting Jordan’s security. Discussions will likely cover measures to counter this drug smuggling issue linked to pro-Iranian influence in southern Syria.
Sharaa is expected to engage in extensive discussions regarding border security and trade relations with Jordan, including efforts to combat drug trafficking. This follows Jordan’s past initiatives to assist Syria in rebuilding and alleviating energy shortages through supply agreements. He has also received an invitation to Egypt for an upcoming Arab League meeting.
The new Syrian government aims to secure Jordan’s support for managing southern Syria, addressing issues such as the presence of US troops in Tanf and relations between the Druze community and surrounding regions. Overall, the meeting is poised to define future cooperation between Syria and Jordan amidst ongoing regional challenges.
The upcoming meeting between Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa and Jordanian King Abdullah is pivotal for addressing regional security and economic collaboration. With shared interests, particularly regarding the stabilization of southern Syria and combatting drug trafficking, this session will likely shape the future dynamics between the two nations. Additionally, the new Syrian government seeks Jordan’s support while navigating complex international relations involving the US and Israel.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
