Mariya Gabriel: Jordan is an important partner of Bulgaria in the Middle East region
25 February 2024 News
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mariya Gabriel paid an official visit to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Ayman Al-Safadi. She was also received in audience by HM King Abdullah II, King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
‘Jordan is an important partner of Bulgaria in the Middle East region. This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Key messages from the visit are the readiness to deepen political dialogue, identify strategic areas for cooperation and coordinate efforts to address regional and global challenges. At the heart of the approach is the need to remain united by values such as peace and solidarity’, Mariya Gabriel said.
The focus of the discussion was on strengthening political dialogue and political consultations in the coming months. Emphasis was also placed on the need to intensify trade, economic and investment cooperation and to establish closer contacts between the business communities of the two countries. Innovation was also in the focus of the talks, with Mariya Gabriel highlighting the potential of Bulgaria and Jordan to be regional innovation leaders.
The two ministers also highlighted the good cooperation between Bulgaria and Jordan in the field of education and science. The programme for cooperation in the fields of education, science and culture, signed between Bulgaria and Jordan last July, will promote international educational exchanges.
Mariya Gabriel stressed that Bulgaria appreciates and supports Jordan's initiatives in the field of security and countering terrorism and radicalisation. She also said that ‘Bulgaria is ready to host this year a meeting in the framework of the Aqaba Process and we hope it will be accompanied by a visit of His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan.’ The initiative was launched by King Abdullah II in 2015 and involves a series of international meetings aimed at strengthening cooperation and coordination in the fight against terrorism.
‘Jordan has proven to be a factor for peace. We commend the efforts of Jordan and His Majesty King Abdullah II personally for peace and stability in the Middle East. Access to humanitarian aid and the protection of all civilians must be a priority. Bulgaria supports a two-state solution’, the Deputy Prime Minister concluded.
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