Jordanian Chief of Staff Meets Syrian Defense Minister in Amman
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – Jordanian Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Yousef Ahmad Huneiti met with Syrian Defense Minister Marhaf Abu Qasra in Amman on Tuesday, marking a significant step in bolstering military and security ties between the two neighboring countries.
The meeting, held at the headquarters of the Jordanian Armed Forces, was part of a broader diplomatic and security initiative that also saw the arrival of senior Syrian officials in Jordan earlier in the day.
High-Level Discussions
In addition to Defense Minister Abu Qasra, the Syrian delegation included Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani and Intelligence Chief Anas Khattab. The delegation held talks with Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and other senior officials, emphasizing a multi-faceted approach to improving bilateral relations.
During his meeting with the Syrian defense minister, Maj. Gen. Huneiti highlighted the importance of joint efforts to address challenges along the shared border, a region frequently impacted by smuggling operations, cross-border security threats, and the lingering effects of the Syrian conflict.
Huneiti reaffirmed the Jordanian Armed Forces’ commitment to leveraging their resources and capabilities to enhance security and stability in the border region.
“The Jordanian Armed Forces stand ready to employ all available means to ensure safety and stability for both nations. Strengthening cooperation is vital to addressing shared threats effectively,” he stated.
Strengthening Historical Ties
For his part, Defense Minister Abu Qasra emphasized the historic relationship between Syria and Jordan, underscoring Damascus’ commitment to close collaboration with Amman.
“The ties between Syria and Jordan are deep-rooted and have withstood the challenges of the past decade. We value Jordan’s pivotal role, under King Abdullah II’s leadership, in promoting regional peace and security,” Abu Qasra said.
The Syrian defense minister also praised Jordan’s efforts in addressing regional crises and its contributions to fostering a peaceful resolution to the ongoing Syrian conflict.
Regional Implications
The meeting comes amid renewed efforts to stabilize the Syrian-Jordanian border, which has been a hotspot for illicit activities, including drug trafficking and weapons smuggling. Jordan has intensified its border security measures in recent years, citing concerns over the spillover effects of the Syrian conflict.
In addition to addressing immediate security concerns, the discussions signal a potential shift in regional dynamics. Both countries appear to be exploring avenues for deeper cooperation after years of strained relations during Syria’s civil war.
The presence of high-ranking Syrian officials in Amman underscores the importance of these talks. Observers note that this visit could pave the way for broader regional dialogue, with implications for trade, border security, and the repatriation of refugees.
A Step Toward Stability
Jordan has played a significant role in regional diplomacy, advocating for a political solution to the Syrian conflict and engaging in dialogue with various stakeholders. King Abdullah II has repeatedly called for comprehensive strategies to address the region’s security and humanitarian challenges.
The latest developments highlight Jordan’s strategic position as a bridge between Syria and the broader Arab world.
While the outcomes of the meeting remain to be seen, the dialogue represents a positive step towards reducing tensions and fostering stability in a volatile region.