King ‘confident of country’s ability to eradicate terror threat’

AMMAN —  His Majesty King Abdullah on Sunday met with community leaders and representatives from the northern, central and southern Badia regions at the Royal Court.

Speaking at the meeting, King Abdullah “paid tribute to the martyrs who gave their lives to defend Jordan, and highlighted the importance of safeguarding the welfare and well-being of their families,” a Royal Court statement said.

King Abdullah voiced pride in the alertness of Jordanians in the face of extremism, expressing confidence in the ability of the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army (JAF) and security agencies to counter terrorism, and safeguard the country against internal and external threats.

The King commended the speedy response to the Fuheis attack, in which a security officer was killed, and the efficiency in tracking the responsible terrorist cell.

During the meeting, His Majesty said he has directed the government to step up fieldwork and maintain outreach to the public in order to enhance services.

The King added that the Royal Hashemite Court will also remain open to all Jordanians, as should all state institutions.

His Majesty underlined the importance of respecting and upholding the rule of law while maintaining transparency, noting that fighting corruption is a main priority and the responsibility of all.

The King stressed that dialogue on corruption must steer clear of character assassination and must not negatively impact Jordan’s reputation.

Turning to the country’s economic challenges, His Majesty said Jordan will overcome these difficult times with the cooperation of all.

The King also discussed regional issues, reaffirming Jordan’s steadfast position on the Palestinian cause and Jerusalem, and dismissing all rumours claiming otherwise.

On Syria, His Majesty said Jordan is coordinating with all the concerned parties to ensure stability in southern Syria, commending the efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, the JAF, and security agencies in this regard.

Meanwhile, Royal Court Chief Youssef Issawi said that the Royal Court, in coordination with the government, had narrowed down priorities and implemented Royal initiatives in the northern, central and southern Badia.

Issawi pointed out that these priorities are a continuation of the initiatives that were implemented in the three of Badia regions during the years 2006 - 2017, including 767 housing units for underprivileged families, 23 centres for young men and women, 26 schools, 36 kindergartens and 37 health centres, in addition to supporting a number of municipalities with the needed machinery. He said that these initiatives are not a substitute for the capital project funded by the state budget.

He added that these initiatives focused in the past on improving the basic services to meet some urgent priorities such as health, education and social development, while in the next phase will have to do with productive projects in all governorates and enabling families to start up small- and medium-sized income and job-generating projects.

For his part, Interior Minister Samir Mubaidin stressed the role of Badia’s residents alongside all Jordanians in building Jordan and preserving its security and stability.

During the meeting, a number of dignitaries and tribal figures took turns to speak on behalf their communities. They stressed that Jordan, under the leadership of the King, the alertness of its people and the vigilance of the JAF and the security services, is capable of overcoming all challenges and moving forward.

They voiced pride in the leadership of His Majesty and in the competence of the JAF and the security services in defending the homeland and protecting its properties and citizens.