Prime Minister, Maltese counterpart discuss ties, region

Prime Minister, Abdullah Ensour, on Monday, discussed with his Maltese counterpart, Joseph Muscat, ways to develop bilateral relations, especially in the economic, trade and investment fields.

During talks attended by senior officials from both countries, Ensour stressed the importance of the "strong" bilateral relations that date back to 1976, expressing keenness to continue developing these relations, based on mutual understanding and common values and interests.

He noted that Jordan, despite the regional turmoil, preserved its security and stability, saying that the Kingdom's modernization and openness qualified it to become a regional hub for economic cooperation.

The prime minister called upon concerned bodies in Jordan and Malta to intensify cooperation with the international community to face the danger of terrorism and extremism, in light of the unprecedented challenges facing the region.

During the meeting, the premier also spoke about local, economic and regional issues, including the Palestinian cause, economic challenges and the Syrian refugee crisis.

He said that the current situation in the Middle East requires exceptional and urgent steps to address challenges and promote economic development and opportunities in Jordan, through facilitating the entry of local products to the European Union (EU) markets, which would help in strengthening the economy, attracting more opportunities and creating more jobs.

Ensour added that Maltese businessmen are invited to benefit from available investment opportunities in Jordan, especially in infrastructure, water, renewable energy, railways and information technology projects.

The Maltese prime minister said Jordan and Malta enjoy stability, noting that promoting the rule of law and democracy in both countries would lead to more mutual cooperation.

He pointed out that his visit to the Kingdom aims to look into challenges facing the region, adding that the regional conditions necessitate more cooperation and consultation. He also expressed understanding of the burden Jordan has to endure as result of hosting refugees and called for a holistic solution to the refugee crisis.

Talks during the meeting also covered means to increase cooperation in trade and tourism areas and operate direct flights between the two countries.

Source ; Petra