President Joseph Aoun arrived in Amman on Tuesday for a high-level visit aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation with Jordan, particularly in addressing the ongoing Syrian refugee crisis and promoting regional stability.
Aoun was received at Marka Military Airport with full honors by Jordan’s King Abdullah II. The visit included formal ceremonies, underscoring the strategic importance of Lebanese-Jordanian relations.
Speaking shortly after his arrival, Aoun emphasized that discussions with King Abdullah would center on the burden of hosting large numbers of Syrian refugees, a challenge he described as “great” for both Lebanon and Jordan.
“The return of refugees cannot happen without guarantees for their safety and dignity,” Aoun said, calling for a “just solution” that would enable the safe and voluntary repatriation of displaced Syrians. He stressed the growing strain on both nations’ infrastructure and resources due to prolonged displacement.
The Lebanese president also noted that the talks would cover avenues to deepen cooperation across various sectors, including bolstering support for national institutions, with particular attention to the Lebanese Armed Forces.
“Jordan’s support for the LAF has been critical,” he stated, underlining the importance of continued military and security collaboration.
Accompanied by a senior delegation, Aoun praised the warmth of the reception and reaffirmed the strength of the historical relationship between Lebanon and Jordan.
“This visit reflects the deep-rooted, historical brotherhood between our two nations and the enduring ties of mutual respect and constructive cooperation,” he said.
Beyond the refugee issue, Aoun revealed that talks would explore expanding economic and trade partnerships, as well as sharing expertise in fields tied to sustainable development and national resilience.
“This visit comes at a delicate time in our region,” he added. “The challenges are mounting, and the need to unify Arab efforts to face common threats—including terrorism, extremism and instability—is more urgent than ever.”
President Aoun concluded by expressing Lebanon’s gratitude for Jordan’s continued diplomatic backing in regional and international forums, reiterating the importance of Arab unity.
King Abdullah, for his part, reaffirmed Jordan’s unwavering support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity.
In a joint statement issued following their meeting, the two leaders called for an immediate end to the war in Gaza and the urgent, unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid to affected populations. They also firmly rejected any efforts to forcibly displace Palestinians and stressed the need for intensified Arab and international engagement toward a just and comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution.
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