Egypt, Jordan foreign ministers discuss Syria
3 min read
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and his Jordanian counterpart Ayman Safadi held a phone conversation on Monday, stressing the importance of supporting Syria and upholding its sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. The two ministers highlighted the need for increased coordination between regional and international stakeholders to aid Syria’s reconstruction efforts. A statement from the Egyptian Foreign Ministry revealed that their discussions emphasized the necessity of a political process that is inclusive and led by Syrians themselves, ensuring the participation and protection of the Syrian people’s rights.
The two leaders also reviewed the latest developments in Syria, with Safadi sharing insights from his recent visit to Damascus. During his visit, Safadi met with Ahmad al-Shara, the head of Syria’s de facto governing group, where discussions focused on Syria’s political transition and broader regional security issues. Safadi strongly condemned a recent Israeli incursion into Syrian territory, further highlighting regional tensions.
Jordan’s commitment to Syria’s reconstruction efforts was reaffirmed by Safadi, who emphasized that Jordan would work to encourage both regional and international partners to engage with Syria’s emerging leadership. A statement from Jordan’s Foreign Ministry shared on social media also stressed the strategic importance of Syria’s reconstruction for both Jordan and the wider region.
In the broader context of regional security, Safadi underscored the significance of securing the 386-kilometer border shared by Jordan and Syria. He drew attention to the persistent challenges posed by terrorism, drug trafficking, and weapons smuggling along this frontier. Safadi insisted that the border should be stable and secure to prevent further destabilizing threats.
Additionally, Abdelatty continued diplomatic efforts regarding Syria by engaging in a phone conversation with his Saudi counterpart, Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, later on Monday. The two foreign ministers discussed the situation in Syria, reiterating their support for Syria’s sovereignty and the integrity of its state institutions. Abdelatty stressed the importance of a comprehensive, Syrian-led political process that involves all segments of Syrian society to restore stability to the country.
The situation in Syria remains fluid, with ongoing challenges both within the country and across its borders. Recently, a militant alliance led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group launched a significant military operation from northern Syria on November 27. This operation swiftly advanced southward, culminating in the capture of Damascus and the overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad’s government in just 12 days. This development has added another layer of complexity to the already volatile situation in Syria, complicating efforts to rebuild and stabilize the country.
The discussions between Egypt and Jordan reflect the growing regional concern over Syria’s future. Both countries are keen on facilitating a political resolution that allows for the reconstruction of Syria while respecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Their calls for a Syrian-led process and the protection of human rights highlight the importance of a peaceful and inclusive path forward.
As the international community continues to engage with Syria, the political, economic, and security challenges persist. The shared border between Jordan and Syria remains a critical focus for regional stability, with security concerns such as terrorism and smuggling continuing to threaten the area. For both Egypt and Jordan, the stability of Syria is of strategic importance, not only for their own security but also for the broader Middle East region.
In conclusion, the recent conversations between Egypt and Jordan’s foreign ministers highlight the pressing need for a coordinated international effort to support Syria’s reconstruction and political transition. Both countries remain committed to ensuring Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, with a particular focus on securing the border and addressing security concerns. However, the recent military developments in Syria, including the rapid changes in political power, indicate that the path to stability remains uncertain. Continued diplomatic engagement and regional cooperation will be crucial to navigating the complex challenges that lie ahead for Syria and its neighbors.
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