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Jordanian palace silent on Russian intervention in Syria

Some commentators argue that Jordan's lack of comment on Russia's involvement in Syria is related to the kingdom's acceptance of Moscow's position that Syrian president Bashar al-Assad be part of a postwar transitional phase.
Jordan's King Abdullah (2nd R) walks to welcome Saudi Arabia's Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman upon his arrival at the Royal Palace in Amman, Jordan, August 4, 2015. REUTERS/Muhammad Hamed - RTX1N1AN
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The Jordanian government had not commented on Russia’s military involvement in Syria, and local observers predict that an official, clearly stated position is unlikely anytime soon. Attempts by Al-Monitor to obtain a response from the government’s spokesperson, Mohammed al-Momani, have been unsuccessful.

On Oct. 5, less than a week after Russian fighter jets launched their first airstrikes against targets on Sept. 30, King Abdullah met with Valentina Matviyenko, chairwoman of the Russian Federation Council. According to the Jordan Times, a royal court statement said the meeting focused on the depth of Jordanian-Russian relations and bilateral economic relations. The newspaper also reported that the king had emphasized “the importance of supporting regional and international efforts to neutralize the dangers threatening global security and stability,” while Matviyenko stressed that “Russia has exerted efforts to arrive at a political solution in Syria and the importance of international cooperation against Daesh [the Islamic State, IS].”

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