On November 6, 2024, NATO’s Special Representative, Javier Colomina, visited Jordan for the first time in his role, engaging with high-ranking officials about regional security and cooperation. He highlighted Jordan’s vital role as a NATO ally and discussed the establishment of a NATO Liaison Office in Amman to enhance strategic relations.
On 6 November 2024, NATO’s Special Representative for the Southern Neighbourhood, Javier Colomina, embarked on his inaugural visit to Jordan. During this visit, he engaged with key officials, including the Secretary General of the Foreign Ministry, the Political Advisor to the King, and the Director of General Intelligence. Mr. Colomina emphasized the importance of the strategic partnership between NATO and Jordan, addressing various mutual concerns, particularly regional security challenges.
Mr. Colomina praised Jordan as a significant partner to NATO, stating, “Jordan is one of the strongest NATO partners and a key player in the region and beyond.” He expressed appreciation for the insights shared by his counterparts regarding regional affairs and commended King Abdallah II bin al-Hussein’s diplomatic efforts in mitigating the conflict in the Middle East. The Special Representative highlighted ongoing initiatives to enhance international and regional cooperation in combating terrorism, underscoring the potential for collaboration with the “Aqaba Process,” initiated by the King in 2015. Additionally, he affirmed the priority placed on border security enhancement through NATO’s Defence Capacity Building package, declaring, “It is important to respond to the security needs of our partners.”
The discussions also included final arrangements for establishing a NATO Liaison Office in Amman. This initiative is a key component of an Action Plan adopted by NATO leaders at the recent summit in Washington D.C., aimed at adopting a stronger and more strategic approach towards the southern neighbourhood. Mr. Colomina outlined that the Liaison Office represents a critical advancement in NATO-Jordan relations, projecting an increase in political dialogue and practical cooperation, ultimately enhancing NATO’s presence and effectiveness in the region.
NATO has been enhancing its partnerships with countries in the Mediterranean and the Middle East through the Southern Neighbourhood initiative. The strategic significance of Jordan in regional stability and its active role in addressing security threats, including terrorism, positions it as a crucial ally for NATO. The establishment of a NATO Liaison Office in Amman signifies a commitment to furthering this partnership and aligns with broader NATO strategies to engage effectively with regional partners.
In summary, Mr. Colomina’s visit to Jordan underscores the strategic significance of this partnership for NATO, particularly in addressing regional security challenges and combating terrorism. His meeting with high-ranking officials and the discussions around the NATO Liaison Office reflect ongoing efforts to strengthen political and practical cooperation. As NATO continues to advance its initiatives in the Southern Neighbourhood, Jordan remains a pivotal ally in promoting stability and security in the region.
Original Source: www.nato.int
