Amman, 8 May 2023 (TDI): Jordan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Ayman Safadi, met with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, Wopke Hoekstra, on Monday.
The two officials discussed ways to enhance bilateral partnership and cooperation within the European Union (EU).
During the meeting, Safadi and Hoekstra addressed several regional and international issues, including the Palestinian cause and the Arab efforts to find a political solution to the Syrian crisis.
They also praised the strong ties between Jordan and the Netherlands and agreed to hold a new session of political consultations to set priorities for future cooperation, with a particular focus on the water and agricultural sectors.
Following a meeting between Ayman Safadi, and Wopke Hoekstra, Safadi gave a post-meeting press conference.
Safadi highlighted the talks covered a range of cooperation areas between the two countries, including economic, investment, defense, and security, with a particular focus on the agricultural and water sectors. Safadi also stressed the importance of their partnership and strong relations between the two countries.
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Additionally, Safadi discussed the latest developments regarding the Syrian crisis, briefing Hoekstra on the new Arab political track launched after the Jeddah and Amman meetings under the Arab League umbrella.
He emphasized that the Arab League’s decision to cancel the freezing of Syria’s membership within the league is part of an Arab effort to reach a political solution to the Syrian crisis in a step-by-step methodology and line with international legitimacy decisions.
Furthermore, Safadi discussed the Palestinian cause, which is a priority for Jordan. He briefed Hoekstra on King Abdullah’s efforts to achieve a just and comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution, with an independent Palestinian state on the pre-June 4, 1967 borders, living in peace and security alongside Israel.
Safadi also placed emphasis on the importance of international support for refugees, who cannot be the sole responsibility of host countries, but rather an international responsibility to provide them with a decent life.
On the other hand, Hoekstra expressed gratitude for Jordan’s efforts to maintain regional stability and support refugees. He also thanked Jordan for its role in evacuating Dutch citizens from Sudan and emphasized the importance of the country as a key partner for the Netherlands.
The Dutch minister praised Jordan’s efforts in hosting refugees and emphasized the need for solidarity to alleviate its burden. He encouraged Dutch citizens to visit Jordan, highlighting its tourist attractions and potential for business development.
The two countries discussed common challenges, such as climate change and the refugee crisis, with Safadi expressing appreciation for the Netherlands’ support in addressing these issues. A joint committee to address the issue of drug smuggling was also agreed.
The diplomatic relations between Jordan and the Netherlands date back to 1951, with last year’s trade exchange totaling $388 million and the Netherlands being the first destination for Jordanian exports to Europe.
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