Jordan bets on GCC deal to boost economy
Jordan has attempted to remain neutral in the Gulf feud that erupted in 2017 when a Saudi-led bloc of nations cut diplomatic ties with Qatar. The kingdom has welcomed the agreement recently signed to end the Gulf dispute.
Jordan was quick to welcome the historic agreement between Qatari and other Gulf leaders signed Jan. 5, under which full diplomatic relations were restored while ending three and a half years of an economic blockade imposed jointly in June 2017 by Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt on Qatar.
The agreement was reached at a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) meeting in the Saudi city of Al-Ula, which was chaired by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman. Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani attended the reconciliation summit. Egypt, which is not part of the GCC, also signed the agreement.
In a statement issued on Jan. 5, Jordan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi was quoted as saying, “The ‘Al-Ula Statement’ is a considerable achievement to heal the rift, end the Gulf crisis and resume brotherly ties to normal, which enhances Gulf solidarity and stability.” He added that “the move also contributes to strengthening Arab solidarity and supporting efforts against common challenges.” He also lauded Kuwaiti and US efforts in ending the crisis.
Jordan feels particularly relieved since it had to embrace a cautious diplomatic line when the crisis first erupted in June 2017. The four countries had severed diplomatic ties with Qatar and enforced an economic blockade that included closing land borders and airspace before Qatari airlines. Qatar was accused of supporting terrorist groups and interfering in the internal affairs of neighboring countries.
