Congressman Gregory W. Meeks' statement recognizing the friendship and partnership between the United States and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

CONGRESSMAN GREGORY W. MEEKS' STATEMENT RECOGNIZING JORDAN

Accompanying the submission of H. Res.222

"We were pleased to welcome the Hashemite King of Jordan, King Abdullah II bin al-Hussein to Washington a few weeks ago and I would like to take this opportunity to highlight the importance of our vital bilateral relationship. The United States and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan began their diplomatic relations in 1949, and have remained strong allies for over six decades. We collaborate closely with the Jordanians in multiple areas, including: security cooperation, economic development, humanitarian assistance and counter-terrorism.

The timing of the King’s visit is critical. The United States is working closely with Jordan to address the humanitarian crisis in Syria, which becomes increasing dire with each passing day. Jordan is hosting approximately 500,000 refugees, and that number grows by 2,000 – 4,000 refugees a day. Jordan faces tremendous economic and humanitarian pressures in the face of regional challenges.

Stability and peace in the Middle East hinges on a strong strategic alliance between the United States and Jordan. Jordan plays an important role in the Middle East peace process, having signed the historic Jordan-Israel Peace Treaty in 1994, normalizing relations between Jordan and Israel and establishing a partnership toward peaceful relations. Jordan is a strong advocate for moving the peace process between the Israelis and Palestinians forward, often reiterating the need for negotiations and offering to serve as a mediator and host for peace talks.

Under the leadership of King Abdullah II, Jordan is the voice of moderation and progress in the Arab world, and recently implemented economic and political reforms. Now is the time to reaffirm the United States’ commitment to and friendship with the people and Government of Jordan. Therefore, I am pleased to submit a resolution to recognize and highlight the long-term partnership and friendship between the United States and Jordan, working together towards peace and security in the Middle East."