Hashim Mammadov a journalist from Eurasia Diary took an interview from the ambassador of Jordan to Azerbaijan Nassar Ibrahim al-Habashneh. We are presenting you the text of the interview.

Mr. Ambassador, firstly, what can you say about the history of relations between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, and the current state of these relations?

-In fact, the Jordan-Azerbaijan relations are considered an example of mutual relations and they are based on the solid friendship between King Abdullah bin al-Hussein and His Excellency President Ilham Aliyev. These relations between the two countries have an ancient history and after the collapse of the Soviet Union, Azerbaijan gained a new stage after its independence. Immediately following this important event, Jordan declared its official recognition of Azerbaijan's independence, followed by diplomatic relations and the opening of the embassy. Now we are witnesses of the solid relationships based on these relations. We have conducted numerous joint actions, we have signed agreements and protocols. Inter-Governmental Joint Economic Commission embraces many fields. The last meeting was held earlier this year. At this meeting, a number of important issues were discussed to strengthen mutual goodwill and focus on a more promising future. We consider ourselves happy because of our success. However, we are determined to achieve more success in all areas, especially in the field of economic cooperation.

Mr. Ambassador, Jordan is considered a reliable partner of the US and Western countries in this region. What can you say about the prospects of relations with the West in the current situation, especially in recent developments in neighboring Syria, heavy blows to terrorist organizations and growing Russia's influence?

It is known that Jordan has a specific connection with Western countries with its historical orientation and the choice of the country's leadership. It was the best choice for Jordan at a certain point. First of all, we have close relations with the United Kingdom and the United States, and we have many bilateral agreements with European countries and the European Union. In our economy, we have very important agreements with the United States. All this creates opportunities for the Jordanian government to build bridges of cooperation and to bridge the mutual understanding with the outside world. But these relations are not at the expense of relations with other countries. We have had very good relations with the Soviet Union, having previously had specific relations with the United States. Thus, there was a certain balance in our international relations. The late Majesty King Hussein has maintained such an important balance. In this respect, Jordan has protected the non-partisan state of neutrality and has never been hostile to anyone.

Now, King Abdullah follows the same policy, and this policy is based on the principle of mutual respect for the sovereignty of all countries, from Japan to China and Russia. Jordan also wants to cover African countries with its diplomatic ties. Undoubtedly, Jordan's relations with the South Caucasus and especially Azerbaijan are very intense and friendly relations.

Regarding Russia's presence or influence in Syria, Jordan welcomes its role in this regard, welcomes its efforts to restore peace and stability in Syria, to combat the region's terrorism and its destruction.

There are agreements between Russia and the United States in Syria covering certain areas, particularly southern regions. A tripartite agreement was also signed between Jordan, the United States and Russia in order to ensure the security of the brother Syrian people in border areas in the south of the country. As you know, Turkey and the United States have a great role in the northern regions of Suriya. We, in our turn, have maintained our stability through cooperation with these great states, which has provided a certain stabilization of the situation in Syria, and as a result, we have reached a better situation compared to the recent past.

King Abdullah II who has been able to establish a relationship with Russia, is in the interest of the entire region and the Syrian people. We respect Russia's role in this policy. Our Iranian brothers also play a role here. If we do not want the intervention of other states into the Syrian territory and don't want these lands are open to them, and if we confirm that the Syrian lands belong to the Syrians, then we also demand that they play a positive role in this matter and help us to restore peace. We always hope that our friends will play a role in ensuring peace and tranquility in our region.

Eurasia Diary

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