Jordan ready to open new page with Syria
Jordan-Syria, Politics, 3/24/1998

On the eve of convening the 109th of the Arab foreign ministers council, Amman has showed readiness to open a new page in the relations with Syria, following two weeks of strong criticism against Damascus, accusing the latter of fighting Jordan in its pharmaceutical products, foodstuffs and produce in Iraq and in holding Syria responsible for the incidents that took place in Maan in February, a matter which was totally denied by Damascus.

In a press conference Jordanian Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Jawad al-Anani said he will propose to the Syrian Foreign Minister Farouk al-Sharaa "to start a serious dialogue to open a new page in the relations with Syria" during the meetings of the Arab foreign ministers to convene today in Cairo.

He added, "Our hearts are open to any dialogue with our Syrian brothers." After noting the differences in positions and views between the two sides, the Jordanian foreign minister asserted "this should not obstruct bilateral cooperation", adding that "Jordan seeks good, neighborly and cooperation relations" with Syria, al-Nahar said.

Earlier Jordanian Health Minister Ashraf al-Kirdi criticized in a press interview on March 12 statements made by Syrian Vice-President Abdul Halim Khaddam, who noted upon meeting with Arab health ministers in Damascus at the beginning of March a "US-Israeli plan according to which Israel occupies Jordan and evacuates the Palestinians to Iraq." Al-Anani described what was stated by Khaddam as a personal view.

The two countries are competing to sell pharmaceutical products to the Iraqi market, MENA reported.

Previous Stories:
  Syria, Jordan agree on a free trade area   (3/14/1998)
  Al-Majali: relations are good with Syria and Iraq   (1/23/1998)
  Syrian to Jordan: You will bear a heavy price if you play with dam   (10/9/1997)

Please add a link on your webiste pointing to ArabicNews.com and bookmark ArabicNews.com & subscribe to our daily email news bulletin.

Search