AMMAN
— The US ambassador to the Kingdom, Yael Lempert, expressed that the timing of
His Majesty King Abdullah’s visit to Washington was highly appropriate, given
the extremely difficult conditions the region is currently facing. She
emphasized the significance of his meeting with US President Joe Biden, stating
that it was vital due to the ongoing challenges.
اضافة اعلان
In
an interview with Jordanian television on Thursday evening, Lempert highlighted
that the purpose of the meeting was to discuss ways to move forward. She
praised the wisdom and vision of His Majesty the King, noting that HIs Majesty
had met Biden more frequently than any other Arab leader. During his visit, His
Majesty engaged with Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, Secretary of State
Antony Blinken, and numerous American congressional leaders from both the
Democratic and Republican parties, Al-Ghad reported.
Lempert
added that His Majesty and Biden discussed the latest developments in the Gaza
Strip, the West Bank, and the broader regional context. They both expressed
their determination to work together to find a permanent solution to the
crisis, emphasizing their commitment to achieving comprehensive and lasting
peace within the framework of a two-state solution.
The
two leaders also discussed ways to facilitate and increase the size of
humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip. Biden also stressed the importance of
preserving the current and historical status of the holy Al-Aqsa Mosque,
acknowledging the historical role of Jordan in safeguarding Islamic sanctities
in Jerusalem.
On
the occasion of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two
countries, Lempert highlighted the strong partnership and friendship that has
been established over the years. She pointed out that the two countries have
signed several agreements, including a memorandum of understanding signed in
2022 that extends for seven years and includes ten billion dollars of American
aid.
The
agreement aims to develop the private sector, stimulate economic opportunities
for women and youth, and support the health, education, and tourism sectors. It
also strengthens Jordan's financial security, underscoring the enduring
partnership between the two countries.
Regarding
economic relations, Lempert mentioned that the two countries signed a free
trade agreement in 2000. This was the first free trade agreement signed by the
US with an Arab country. Since then, trade relations between the two countries
have witnessed significant growth, with Jordanian exports to the US now accounting for 20 percent of the total
volume of Jordanian exports. Additionally, the US has become the third-largest
trading partner for Jordan.
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