Amman, Jan. 12 (Petra) – Academics and politicians have agreed that Jordan has a unique opportunity amid the current situation in Syria to rebuild political, economic, and trade relations while enhancing its strategic position in the region.
During a seminar titled “Syria Post-Assad: Opportunities and Challenges for Jordan and the Region”, organized by the Center for Strategic Studies at the University of Jordan, participants highlighted Jordan’s proactive and promising foreign policy. His Majesty King Abdullah II was noted as the first Arab leader to address this historic turning point, emphasizing Jordan’s solidarity with the Syrian people, respect for their choices, and the need to stabilize Syria and prevent chaos.
Insights from Key Speakers
Former Prime Minister Abdel Raouf Rawabdeh emphasized the deep-rooted ties between the Jordanian and Syrian peoples, describing them as bonded by shared history, blood, and destiny. He praised Jordan’s foreign policy direction while urging caution given the prevailing instability in the region.
Hassan Momani, Director of the Center for Strategic Studies, described Syria’s emerging regime as a promising opportunity for political stability. He highlighted Jordan’s role in leveraging its relations with Turkiye to influence developments in Syria, underscoring Jordan’s historical connections with Iraqi and Syrian communities.
Samir Taqiuddin, Director General of the Middle East Research Center, stressed the importance of pushing for stability in Syria, citing the influential roles of Turkiye and the U.S. He argued that Jordan’s strong ties with these nations position it as a key player in supporting Syria’s regional reintegration.
Professor Anoush Ehteshami, from Durham University in the UK, emphasized that Syria is central to profound shifts in the Arab region. He called on neighboring countries to examine the fall of the previous Syrian regime to anticipate future developments.
Professor Bülent G?kay, a professor of international history at Keele University, argued that regional powers bear responsibility for restoring stability in Syria. He warned that failure to establish an inclusive and democratic administration in Syria could lead to renewed civil conflict.
Former Royal Court Chief and Deputy Prime Minister Jawad Anani highlighted that Syria could benefit from Jordan’s democratic experience, offering a governance model capable of addressing regional and global challenges while building a productive economy.
Strategic Opportunity for Jordan
Participants pointed out that Jordan is well-positioned to enhance its strategic role, especially under the new U.S. administration, due to its influential relations in Syria and Iraq, as well as its historical ties with Turkiye. Jordan’s proactive diplomacy was viewed as a critical factor in shaping Syria’s reintegration into the regional framework.
//Petra// AF
12/01/2025 23:25:27
