Jordan and Austria have called for ongoing international support for Syria's recovery and reconstruction efforts. Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi met with Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger in Vienna on Thursday, September 3, 2026, where the two ministers discussed regional tensions and initiatives to foster stability. Mr. Safadi stated, "Syria is now presenting a success story that we and Austria agree must be supported." The discussions also covered escalating regional tensions, with both diplomats emphasizing the importance of collaborative approaches to maintain peace.
Syria Recovery and Regional Stability
Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger commended Jordan's efforts in promoting stability and recovery within Syria. Her remarks in Vienna noted Jordan's role in encouraging the voluntary return of Syrian refugees, acknowledging the kingdom's significant contributions to these critical humanitarian and stability-focused initiatives. The two ministers, Ms. Meinl-Reisinger and Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, emphasized diplomacy and dialogue as the primary methods for resolving ongoing regional crises. Their discussions showed a shared belief in non-military solutions for complex geopolitical issues, stressing these as the preferred means of resolving regional crises. They reiterated their joint commitment to fostering an environment conducive to lasting peace and sustainable development across the Middle East.
Meinl-Reisinger also acknowledged Jordan's significant contributions to humanitarian aid efforts in Gaza. She specifically praised the kingdom's role in delivering essential assistance to the region and facilitating medical treatment for wounded Palestinian children, noting the tangible impact of Jordan's humanitarian interventions. This recognition came during a meeting focused on broader regional stability and recovery initiatives, where both nations affirmed their commitment to supporting affected populations. The exchange reflected a joint understanding of the interconnectedness of stability and humanitarian action across the Middle East, with both ministers recognizing that effective humanitarian aid is key for regional stability.
Broader Regional Tensions Discussed
Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi condemned Iranian aggressions against Jordan and Gulf Cooperation Council states during his discussions in Vienna. He detailed the destabilizing impact of these actions on regional security. Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger condemned these attacks and expressed Austria’s solidarity with Jordan, affirming Austria's support for regional stability and sovereignty. The ministers showed the importance of international cooperation in addressing such threats to peace and security.
Mr. Safadi also called for international support for the Lebanese government to extend its sovereignty across the country, emphasizing the need for a strong, unified state. He further urged an Israeli withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territory and the full implementation of U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701, which calls for respect for the Blue Line and a permanent ceasefire. Regarding the Gaza enclave, Mr. Safadi called for the full implementation of U.S. President Donald Trump’s plan to consolidate stability in the territory, advocating for measures that would lead to a more secure and peaceful future for its residents. He also demanded that Israeli restrictions on humanitarian aid to Gaza be lifted immediately, stressing the urgent need for unimpeded access to essential supplies for the civilian population. Additionally, Mr. Safadi warned that Israeli measures in the West Bank were undermining the two-state solution and prospects for a full peace. He specifically cited settlement expansion, settler violence, and land seizures as contributing factors to this erosion, noting how these actions jeopardize the possibility of a viable Palestinian state.
Diplomatic Engagement and Partnership
Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi stated that Jordan and Austria concurred on the necessity of supporting the Syrian government in its ongoing efforts to rebuild the country, acknowledging the complex challenges involved in post-conflict recovery. Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger, for her part, characterized Jordan as a key regional partner, describing the kingdom as a pillar of security and stability in the Middle East. She emphasized Jordan's indispensable role in regional diplomacy and humanitarian efforts. Earlier, Mr. Safadi held discussions with members of the Austrian parliament’s foreign affairs and defense committees. These meetings showed the depth of diplomatic engagement between the two nations on critical regional issues and future collaborative efforts, aiming to foster greater understanding and coordination. The discussions aimed to reinforce bilateral ties and coordinate strategies for addressing shared challenges, particularly those related to regional stability and post-conflict recovery, ensuring a united front on key international matters.
