Jordanian King Discusses with French President Ways to Develop Bilateral Relations and Common Issues
Paris, 17 Sep (KUNA) -- Jordanian King Abdullah II met on Thursday with his host, French President Emmanuel Macron, to discuss ways to develop bilateral relations across various fields, as well as to exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.
The Elysee Palace stated in a statement that the two sides discussed means of strengthening the historic friendship between the two countries, affirming that "deep ties exist between France and Jordan, based on the principles of steadfast friendship, trust, and mutual respect."
According to the statement, President Macron and King Abdullah II emphasized the importance of continuing to coordinate efforts, consult, and converge views on numerous regional and international issues of mutual concern.
Regarding military relations, the two sides considered the French-Jordanian partnership in the fields of defense and security "essential for supporting de-escalation efforts in the region." In this regard, the French President affirmed France's commitment to supporting Jordan's security and stability, viewing it as a fundamental pillar for security and stability in the Near East and Middle East regions.
The statement noted that both sides viewed the signing of a defense cooperation agreement during the current visit as "an important step toward consolidating the French-Jordanian defense partnership, and also reflects the two countries' commitment to continue strengthening this partnership."
It clarified that this agreement "provides a comprehensive framework for organizing various aspects of defense and security cooperation to serve the shared interests of both countries, and enables France and Jordan to contribute more jointly to consolidating security and stability in the Near East and Middle East regions."
On the regional situation, the two sides expressed concern over the deterioration of conditions in the Middle East, calling on the parties involved in the conflicts to resolve matters through diplomatic means.
The statement mentioned that President Macron and the Jordanian King affirmed their countries' support for all efforts aimed at resolving regional crises through peaceful means.
Regarding the Palestinian situation, they emphasized the necessity of taking concrete steps according to a clear timetable to establish an independent and sovereign Palestinian state within the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital, "in implementation of the two-state solution, which represents the only path to achieving a just and lasting peace."
They stressed their opposition to any attempt to annex the West Bank and any attempt to displace the Palestinian people.
They also emphasized the importance of preserving the current historical and legal status quo of the Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, with the French President affirming the essential role of the Hashemite leadership as the custodian of these holy places.
In another development, the statement revealed that President Macron and King Abdullah II, together with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, launched the work of a special committee established within the framework of the "Aqaba Initiative" to mobilize and coordinate efforts to support the Lebanese Army and determine its needs, as well as to enhance cooperation among all relevant parties providing support.
The French President and the Jordanian King affirmed, according to the statement, their support for the efforts of the Lebanese state aimed at ensuring Lebanon's security, strengthening its sovereignty over its entire territory, and ensuring that weapons are held exclusively by the Lebanese state. (End) MB / SEM
