King, German president discuss strengthening cooperation, regional developments
Amman, February 18 (Petra) -- His Majesty King Abdullah II and Germany President Frank-Walter Steinmeier held talks in Amman on Wednesday, focusing on ways to strengthen cooperation between Jordan and Germany, and the latest developments in the region, according to a royal court statement. During the talks attended by Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah, First Lady Elke Büdenbender, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II His Majesty welcomed President Steinmeier, noting that the visit provided an opportunity to exchange important views on regional developments.
In expanded talks with officials from both countries, His Majesty highlighted the strength of political relations and defence cooperation between Jordan and Germany, expressing his pride in their economic ties and partnership in vocational education and technical training that is helping to empower young Jordanians.
His Majesty highlighted Jordan’s readiness to further expand cooperation with Germany, within the framework of the EU-Jordan Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership.
For his part, President Steinmeier expressed his appreciation to the King for their many discussions over the past two decades, which covered various issues and provided an important perspective, particularly on regional developments and crises.
The German president highlighted Jordan’s vital role as an anchor of stability in the region, praising His Majesty’s wisdom and commitment to humanitarian causes and support for refugees, despite the burden it places on the Kingdom.
President Steinmeier said his current visit to Jordan was focused on the cooperation between the two countries in scientific and academic fields, as well as the business sector.
During the discussions, His Majesty said Jordan looks forward to Germany’s participation at the Jordan-EU Investment Conference taking place in Amman in April, which will contribute to strengthening Jordanian-German business and investment partnerships.
On regional developments, His Majesty highlighted Germany’s important role in efforts to restore stability, affirming Jordan’s commitment to continue coordinating closely with Germany in this regard, to ensure respect for the dignity of all peoples in the region.
The King stressed the need for international action to halt escalations in the West Bank, reiterating Jordan’s categorical rejection of Israeli measures aimed at illegal land annexation and settlement expansion.
His Majesty warned of the dangers of ongoing violations against Muslim and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, which constitute a blatant violation of the historical and legal status quo.
The King expressed appreciation for Germany’s support in maintaining the Gaza ceasefire agreement, stressing the need for all parties to adhere to ending the war, and ensuring the flow of humanitarian aid to all parts of the Strip.
His Majesty also emphasised the importance of supporting Syria’s reconstruction efforts, and preserving its security, stability, and sovereignty.
Director of the Office of His Majesty Alaa Batayneh, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply Yarub Qudah, Jordan’s Ambassador to Germany Fayez Khouri, and Germany’s Ambassador to Jordan Bertram von Moltke, as well as the accompanying delegation, attended the meeting.
//Petra// AK
