Jordan Times
Thursday, January 8, 2004
'Jordan will never be alternative homeland'
AMMAN (Petra) — His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday reiterated that Jordan will never be an “alternative homeland for anyone.”King Abdullah told military officers from 14 Arab and foreign countries taking part in a training course at the Royal Jordanian National Defence College that the issue of a confederation between the Kingdom and Palestinians could not be discussed for the time being. “There could be no talks on the issue until a Palestinian state is established and the two peoples show their wish for such a confederation,” the King said.
He added that the Mideast peace process is facing a difficult time and that Jordan's efforts now are focused on supporting the Palestinian people and their government headed by Ahmed Qureia. The Monarch explained that only a strong Palestinian government will have the ability to enter, with confidence and vigour, negotiations with Israel. During the meeting, attended by HRH Prince Faisal, senior officials and military officers, the King said he has a vision to develop the national economic, social and political situations over the next five or ten years. The Monarch noted that he had directed the government to draw up a strategy of its own work, defining the role of the premier and each minister. “So ministers will take responsibility for failure to implement their tasks,” King Abdullah stressed.
On the Jordanian-Syrian ties, the King described his relationship with Syrian President Bashar Assad as “excellent.” He said his talks with US officials focused on the significance of dialogue as the only way to solve problems. Jordan believes that an embargo on Syria would only complicate the situation, he added.
The Royal Jordanian National Defence College functions under the Royal Jordanian War Academy, offering a modern training to decision makers in the political and strategic fields.