Samih Maaitah

Since the fall of Bashar Al Assad's regime, Jordan has made its decisions clear, announcing its respect for the will of the Syrian people. From the very beginning, Jordan worked to rally both Arab and international support for the creation of a new Syria that represents all Syrians, one that is capable of reintegrating into the Arab and international communities, and establishing a political system that fulfills the aspirations the Syrians fought for against the Assad regime.

It was also important to find an effective way to lift European and American sanctions on Syria, as this path is crucial to saving the Syrian economy and pulling it out of its crises.

Jordan leaves no stone unturned in assisting Syria’s stability in all areas. A significant part of these challenges has to do the internal Syrian equation between the new government and Syria's political and social components, including the Kurds, Alawites, and others. Jordan will act with full sincerity in any means available to help the Syrian people restore their country's stability, sovereignty and security.

However, between Jordan and Syria, and President Ahmad Al Sharaa, there are many security, political, and economic issues. Jordan understands that the new Syrian government has a number of major issues keeping it busy, and consequently overshadowing the northern neighbour's relations with Jordan and others. Yet, the bilateral ties between the two countries involve regional issues, such as Lebanon, Iraq, and Israel. The remnants of extremist organisations, Daesh, and Hizbollah continue to affect Syria’s relations with Lebanon and Iraq, as well as its relationship with Kurds and Turkey. Nevertheless, Syria will always find Jordan as a supporter and empowering factor to its stability in all aspects, including lifting sanctions, an issue that the Kingdom has worked hard on, as acknowledged by the new Syrian government, which was reiterated during the Syrian foreign minister’s recent visit to Amman.

The new government’s equation includes a strong relationship with Turkey, given the strong previous ties between Hayat Tahrir Al Sham and Ankara. It also involves a relationship with Saudi Arabia, which is of prime significance, given Riyadh's regional and international weight. However, Jordan shares a special relationship with Syria due to geographical proximity, mutual interests. When Al Sharaa visits Jordan and meets with His Majesty King Abdullah, he will understand the importance of building on this special relationship and in addressing bilateral or regional issues, benefiting in this regard from the Jordanian leadership's expertise and presence.

Jordan is not seeking influence, but is rather entirely focused on restoring Syria’s stability and protecting mutual interests.