US assistant state secretary's visit to Jordan underlines commitment to refugees: Embassy

AMMAN — The US Embassy in Amman on Thursday highlighted the importance of the visit of US Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM), Julieta Valls Noyes, to Jordan, in terms of reinforcing the two countries’ excellent relationship, according to Jordan News Agency, Petra.  اضافة اعلان

In a statement, the Embassy said that during the visit, Noyes also served as Head of Delegation to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency’s (UNRWA) Advisory Commission.

"Her visit, which ends today, highlighted the strong US partnership with Jordan in providing critical humanitarian support for refugees and host communities throughout the region," the statement added.

"We appreciate Jordan’s efforts to provide refugees access to health, education, and formal employment," Assistant Secretary Noyes said, adding "We hope that this trip continues to expand on the relationships the United States has fostered with Jordan and local leaders to improve the lives of Syrian, Palestinian, and other refugees around the region alongside the Jordanians who have welcomed them into their communities."

The official noted that the United States remains committed to supporting the humanitarian response in Jordan for all refugee populations, noting that in Fiscal Year 2022, the U.S. government provided more than $257 million in humanitarian assistance in Jordan.

During the visit, Noyes discussed cooperation on refugee issues with Jordanian officials including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Ayman Safadi, and Minister of Planning and International Cooperation, Zeina Toukan. Noyes also met with UN agencies and other U.S. partners implementing humanitarian assistance projects with refugees living in Jordan.

While at the Zaatari refugee camp, the Assistant Secretary expressed appreciation to Jordan for hosting Syrian refugees until a time when they can return safely and voluntarily to Syria with dignity.

Noyes also heard from student parliamentarians at the PRM-supported Zuhour School, where more than 2,000 refugee girls study. The students shared their challenges, aspirations, and appreciation for the state-of-art facility since senior representatives from PRM and Embassy Amman partnered with UNRWA to inaugurate the school in 2021.

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