Jordan Times
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Jordan supports Iraqi gov’t efforts to restore law and order
AMMAN (JT) - His Majesty King Abdullah on Tuesday
renewed Jordan's support for efforts to realise security and stability in Iraq,
impose the government’s authority all over the country and end all forms of
violence and terrorism.
At a meeting with Iraqi Vice President Tareq Hashemi, the King said only the
unity and solidarity of Iraqis would help them stand up to all threats their
country faces.
The Monarch underlined the importance of intensifying Arab efforts in support of
Iraq and open channels of communication to help preserve the country's unity and
sovereignty.
He added it was important to enhance fruitful cooperation between Iraq and the
Arab world.
King Abdullah said Jordan was also keen on activating ties between the two
countries, especially in the economic, political and commercial fields.
The vice president briefed King Abdullah on the latest political developments in
his country and efforts to reach a national accord to continue the building of a
unified, secure and stable Iraq.
Hashemi said Iraq currently is witnessing positive changes with regard to
entrenching security and stability in all of its areas.
Iraqi troops are cracking down on Al Qaeda terror organisation in the northern
town of Mosul, believed to be the last urban bastion of the group. The campaign
came in the aftermath of another which targeted the militias of Mehdi Army
affiliated with Shiite cleric Moqtada Sadr.
He also voiced appreciation for Jordan's hosting of Iraqis and admitting Iraqi
students to the Kingdom's schools. Jordan has accepted all Iraqi children in
state-run schools regardless of their residency status. Amman has also responded
to an Iraqi request to apply a visa system for Iraqis wishing to enter the
Kingdom.
Hashemi, who stressed his country's keenness to cement ties with Jordan, said he
would meet with a group of Jordanian businesspeople to discuss commercial
exchange and investment.
Hashemi, who is currently on a visit to Jordan as part of a tour that will take
him to other Arab countries, said Iraq is looking forward to stronger ties with
Arab countries at all levels, including the reopening of diplomatic missions.
Jordan currently has no ambassador serving in Iraq.
HRH Prince Ali, Royal Court Chief Bassem Awadallah, Director of the General
Intelligence Department Lieutenant General Mohammad Dahabi and Iraqi Ambassador
in Amman Saad Hayyani were present at the meeting.