King, Norway PM discuss aid to Syrian refugees

(MENAFN- Jordan News Agency) His Majesty King Abdullah II Sunday welcomed Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg and discussed ways in which the international community can support Jordan to shoulder the burden of hosting Syrian refugees and providing basic services to them.

During the meeting, attended by Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour, the King and the Norwegian premier emphasized the importance of providing aid and soft financing to Jordan as well as developing the infrastructure in the Kingdom's developmental zones and attracting investments to them.

His Majesty thanked Oslo for the aid it had offered to the Kingdom, particularly assistance related to Syrian refugees that "will enable it to continue providing them with relief and humanitarian services".

The King also said efforts should be stepped up to reach a comprehensive political solution to the Syrian crisis that ends the spiral of killings and violence and safeguards Syria's territorial unity.

The meeting also dealt with regional and international efforts to counter terrorism and extremism within a holistic approach.

The Norwegian prime minister said her country is interested in further developing and expanding a partnership with Jordan, lauding the Kingdom's endeavors to bring about peace and enhance regional stability. She noted the strains placed on Jordan by the huge number of Syrian refugees, pledging Norway's support in that undertaking.

Jordan will next year open an embassy in Oslo, a move that will further bolster the friendship and cooperation between the two countries.