FM, Maltese counterpart talk cooperation, region

AMMAN — Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi on Sunday met his Maltese counterpart Carmelo Abela for talks that went over bilateral relations, ways of enhancing economic cooperation and the latest regional developments with a focus on the Palestinian cause. 

The two ministers highlighted the start of a process for the evaluation of bilateral relations to determine “promising” areas for the enhancement of cooperation in the economic, trade and tourism fields, according to a Foreign Ministry statement. 

Safadi and Abela also went over the latest regional developments with a focus on the Palestinian cause, the Syrian crisis and counterterrorism efforts. 

During the meeting, Safadi stressed the threat posed by unilateral Israeli measures, which are a breach of international law and undermine the possibility for a two-state solution. 

He added that the Palestinian-Israeli conflict can only be resolved through a two-state solution that guarantees the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along the June 4, 1967 lines, with East Jerusalem as its capital. 

The two sides addressed the latest developments in the Syrian crisis, with Safadi reaffirming Jordan’s “firm stance” on the importance of reaching a political solution that ensures Syria’s territorial unity and security and that is accepted by its people. 

Talks tackled the Kingdom’s role in combatting terrorism and extremist ideology, with the Maltese minister expressing appreciation for efforts led by His Majesty King Abdullah to enhance regional security and stability. 

Regarding the refugee crisis, Abela voiced his country’s appreciation for Jordan’s humanitarian role towards Syrian refugees. 

Safadi reaffirmed that the international community must bear the responsibility of addressing the consequences of the refugee crisis.