Jordan and Syria Leaders Collaborate on Border Security Initiatives
Jordan’s King Abdullah and Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa met to enhance cooperation on border security, focusing on countering arms and drug trafficking. King Abdullah condemned recent Israeli strikes on Syria and expressed optimism about Syria’s political transition after years of conflict. Both leaders aim to foster stability in the region, with Jordan offering assistance in rebuilding efforts.
In a significant development, King Abdullah of Jordan and Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa convened on Wednesday to enhance border security measures against arms and drug trafficking. This meeting, held in Amman, also involved a condemnation by the Jordanian monarch regarding Israel’s recent airstrikes targeting southern Damascus, representing a continuation of Israeli actions focused on Syrian military positions.
The leaders acknowledged the necessity for coordinated efforts to fortify border security and counter the smuggling of arms and narcotics, which had plagued Jordan during Bashar al-Assad’s regime. The royal palace indicated that King Abdullah blamed the ongoing smuggling issues on pro-Iranian militias active in southern Syria during that time, with Sharaa expressing his commitment to address these challenges.
This diplomatic meeting marks President Sharaa’s third international trip since his assumption of power, following engagements with key regional players such as Saudi Arabia and Turkey. Historically, Assad’s tenure strained Syrian relations with neighboring Arab nations, contributing to lasting regional instability.
In the wake of the ongoing conflict, Jordan has shown a keen interest in promoting a peaceful political transition in Syria, driven by concerns over potential chaos along its borders. King Abdullah praised a recent national dialogue conference held in Damascus, citing it as a significant step toward the reconstruction and stabilization of Syria to meet the aspirations of its populace.
Moreover, Jordanian officials have expressed readiness to assist Syria’s reconstruction efforts by providing essential resources, including electricity and gas, to alleviate the current power shortages in the country.
The meeting between King Abdullah and interim President Sharaa emphasizes the importance of bilateral cooperation in securing borders and combating the smuggling of narcotics and weapons. Amid ongoing regional tensions, both leaders are committed to fostering stability and working towards the rebuilding of Syria, highlighting Jordan’s readiness to assist in the recovery efforts of its neighbor.
Original Source: gazette.com
