Jordan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Ayman Safadi received US Special Representative for Syria Engagement James Jeffrey, who is visiting the Kingdom as a part of a regional tour.
The top officials discussed the latest developments in the Syrian crisis, and Safadi stressed the need for intensifying efforts to reach a political solution in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254, which preserves the unity of the Syrian territory and people and secures the voluntary return of refugees.
Both Safadi and Jefferey discussed the effects of the influx of Syrian refugees, with the Jordanian Minister outlining his country’s burdens of hosting some 1.3 million Syrians. He called on the international community to continue upholding its responsibilities towards Syrian refugees, adding that the Kingdom encourages the voluntary return of refugees.
Jordan’s minister informed the US top official that Syrians reside in Rukban camp and that the only solution lies in the return of its residents to their hometowns, noting that the camp is Syria’s responsibility rather than Jordan’s, as aid from Damascus is now possible.
The two sides also discussed the latest developments in the war on terrorism, highlighting ongoing work within the framework of international alliances to defeat terrorist groups.
During the meeting, Jeffrey hailed the Kingdom’s humanitarian role towards Syrian refugees and maintaining regional security and stability.
Jordan hosts some 1.5 million Syrian refugees who fled the war in their country since 2011.
