Jordan calls for resolving frequent closures on border with Iraq

AMMAN — Jordan on Tuesday emphasised the need to resolve frequent closures on the Jordanian-Iraqi border to ensure the continued flow of agricultural and industrial exports to the Iraqi market.

The issue is also pertinent because of the passage of tankers carrying crude fuel through the Turaibil/Karameh crossing into Jordan, Interior Minister Salameh Hammad said at a meeting with Iraq’s Ambassador to Jordan Jawad Abbas. 

The two sides discussed ways to facilitate the transfer of Jordanian goods to Iraq, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra.

The Turaibil/Karameh crossing re-opened recently, after having been closed by Iraqi authorities since mid-July due to security reasons and fighting with extremists in Anbar province.

Hammad and the ambassador reviewed political, economic and security issues and ways to bolster ties. 

Abbas said he is working with his government to ensure that joint commercial and economic cooperation is not hampered by border closures. 

Al Nakheeb yard at the Iraqi-Saudi-Jordanian border that leads to Basra will also be prepared to operate soon, he added. 

The two sides agreed on the need for continued coordination and consultations regarding all issues of mutual interest, according to Petra.