Press release
Tánaiste meets Jordanian King and FM Safadi and visits UNRWA projects
From Department of Foreign Affairs
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of Foreign Affairs
Published on
Last updated on
The Tánaiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, Micheál Martin TD, has continued his visit to Egypt and Jordan today, holding high-level meetings with the King of Jordan, HM King Abdullah II and Jordanian Foreign Minister, Ayman Safadi.
The Tánaiste also visited El Talbieh, a Palestinian refugee camp administered by UNRWA, located south of Amman.
Speaking following his meetings with HM King Abdullah II and Minister Safadi, the Tánaiste commented: “I had excellent and substantive discussions in Amman today with His Majesty, King Abdullah II and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Safadi. At a time of regional instability, Jordan’s active role in diplomacy and de-escalation is more crucial than ever. Jordan brings an insightful analysis and a moral authority to regional and global discussions on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that I deeply appreciate. We are united in our view that the attention of the international community needs to remain on the situation in Gaza. I reiterate what I said yesterday in Egypt: the protection of civilians is Israel’s obligation under international humanitarian law. There must be accountability for all civilian deaths. And, 200 days into this horrible conflict, all hostages must be released unconditionally. "
The Tánaiste discussed the recognition of a Palestinian State by a number of European countries in the context of ongoing peace efforts, including the Arab peace plan and the upcoming UN General Assembly discussion on Palestinian membership of the UN. He said: “In recent weeks, we have intensified discussions with Jordan and regional partners on how Ireland’s recognition of a Palestinian state, with other European partners, can generate momentum for a comprehensive political solution to this conflict, based on the Arab peace plan. Jordan and Egypt are playing a key role in this. The conflict in Gaza, and the broader occupation of Palestine, are a persistent source of regional instability. We cannot ensure peace and security for Israelis, Palestinians and the wider region without a comprehensive plan that delivers a two-State solution.”
The Tánaiste also spoke of his visit to the UNRWA Al Talbieh refugee camp, where he visited a school and medical clinic: “It was moving and inspiring to meet young Palestinians in Jordan today. They spoke of their hopes for a future in which they can live with their families in peace and security in a Palestinian state. Their enthusiasm, energy and commitment is a testament to UNRWA’s indispensable and irreplaceable role in providing for the human and economic development of the Palestinian people.”
ENDS
Press Office
24 April 2024