Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa met with King Abdullah II of Jordan in Amman to discuss border security and the return of Syrian refugees. Both leaders emphasized the coordination needed to combat smuggling and support Syria’s reconstruction. The talks come amid ongoing Israeli strikes in southern Syria, highlighting regional tensions following the Syrian civil war.
Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa recently met with Jordan’s King Abdullah II in Amman. Their discussions centered on enhancing security along their shared border and facilitating the safe return of Syrian refugees. The Jordanian royal court highlighted the importance of addressing border security challenges, particularly in stemming the illicit trade of weapons and drugs while ensuring the conditions necessary for refugees to return safely.
During the meeting, King Abdullah expressed Jordan’s commitment to support Syria’s reconstruction, emphasizing the need for Syria’s unity, security, and stability. Jordan has attributed the ongoing smuggling issues to pro-Iranian militias that gained influence during Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Sharaa assured the king of his intent to combat these illegal activities effectively.
The Jordanian king also condemned recent Israeli strikes on southern Damascus and areas near the Jordan border, marking a continuation of Israeli military actions targeting Syrian military installations. This visit marks Sharaa’s third diplomatic trip since ousting Assad in December, with prior visits to Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
Accompanying Sharaa was Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, who previously visited Amman to strengthen cooperation against drug and arms trafficking. The production of drugs such as Captagon has surged since the civil war began, with government involvement cited in evidence post-Assad’s overthrow.
Jordan remains one of the few Arab nations to maintain its embassy in Damascus since the civil war erupted in 2011, hosting an international summit on Syria shortly after Assad’s removal. The prolonged Syrian conflict has resulted in significant destruction and economic turmoil throughout the country.
The meeting between Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Jordan’s King Abdullah II reflects ongoing efforts to enhance border security and facilitate Syrian refugee returns. Jordan’s support for Syria’s reconstruction underscores regional stability concerns, particularly in light of ongoing smuggling issues and recent Israeli military actions. This dialogue is vital as both nations navigate the complexities resulting from the prolonged conflict in Syria.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
