FM, Lavrov discuss reducing tension

Minister of Foreign and Expatriates Affairs Ayman Safadi Tuesday discussed over the telephone with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov the escalation and tension at the Al Aqsa Mosque/Haram Al Sharif and efforts to restore calm at the Jerusalem holy site.

The two ministers also discussed the Jordanian-Russian-US talks in Amman on setting up a de-escalation zone in southwestern Syria.

Safadi said collective efforts are needed to stop the escalation at the Haram Al Sharif (holy sanctuary) through fully and immediately reopening the holy site to worshippers without hindrances.

Minister Safadi also stressed that the historic and legal status quo be maintained in the holy city, warning against the repercussions of continued escalation at the holy places.

Lavrov stressed the importance of restoring calm and stop the deterioration, reiterating that Moscow respects Jordan’s role and responsibilities towards the East Jerusalem holy places.

The two ministers also stressed the need for re-launching an effective effort to make progress towards Palestinian-Israeli peace, based on the two-state solution.

They also expressed their commitment to forge ahead with joint efforts along with the United States to establish a de-escalation zone in southern Syria, and pledged to work to build on the three-way ceasefire agreement for southern Syria, which was endorsed by the three countries in Amman on July 7.

They said the agreement is part of efforts to achieve a ceasefire in the whole of Syria and is a step toward finding a political solution that safeguards Syria’s territorial integrity, freedom, independence and sovereignty.

The ministers also discussed steps to develop Jordanian-Russian ties, which are continually growing upon the directives of His Majesty King Abdullah II and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Source: Fana News