Safadi, Syrian counterpart discuss cooperation, border security, drug smuggling

AMMAN — Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi discussed on Tuesday bilateral relations, drug smuggling, border security and other issues with Syria's newly appointed Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al Shibani.

Safadi, accompanied by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Major General Yousef Hunaiti, General Intelligence Directorate Chief Major General Ahmad Husni, and Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Saleh Kharabsheh, held extensive discussions with a high-level Syrian delegation. 

The delegation, led by the Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al Shibani, included Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra, General Intelligence Chief Anas Khattab, Minister of Oil and Mineral Resources Ghiath Diab, and Minister of Electricity Omar Shaqrouq.

 The talks focused on enhancing bilateral relations and exploring cooperation in various sectors, including borders, security, energy, transportation, water, trade, and other vital areas, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra. 

In a press conference with his Syrian counterpart following the discussions, Safadi announced Jordan's readiness to supply electricity to Syria immediately. 

He emphasized that joint committees would be formed with Syria to address security, energy, and other areas of mutual interest.  

Acknowledging the challenges faced by the new Syrian administration, Safadi affirmed Jordan's "unwavering support for Syria and its commitment to providing all necessary assistance."  

Safadi said that Jordan stands by the Syrian people, respects their will, and supports them in rebuilding their country.  

He added that Syria's stability translates into Jordan's stability, and Syria's security positively impacts Jordan. 

He noted that the Armed Forces – Arab Army (JAF) have confronted all smuggling attempts along the borders over the past years.  

Safadi emphasized that the Syrian people deserve a free homeland after years of suffering.

Discussions also addressed security in southern Syria and efforts to combat drug smuggling along the border. 

Safadi said the new Syrian administration is not responsible for past activities involving smuggling networks. 

He added that conditions enabling drug smuggling into Jordan have significantly changed.  

On his part, Al Shibani urged Jordanian delegations and companies to visit Syria. "We have a real opportunity to achieve sustainable cooperation with Jordan, benefiting both countries positively."

Al Shibani explained that Syria is working to remove the international sanctions imposed on it, which hinder partnerships that could benefit its people.

 He added that Syria is striving to fulfill its commitments, uphold its people's sovereignty, and ensure stability for the entire region.

Regarding smuggling of captagon, Al Shibani said that the new situation in Syria has ended threats previously faced by Jordan. 

Al Shibani further noted that the new administration is leveraging Syria's diversity to build the nation's future. 

A broad preparatory committee for national dialogue has been established to ensure comprehensive representation of the Syrian people.

He concluded by stressing, "We want the national dialogue to represent the will of the Syrian people."