Amman, July 7 (Petra) Interior Minister Mazen Faraya held discussions with his Austrian counterpart Gerhard Karner in Vienna on Monday as part of an official visit to Austria.

The talks focused on strengthening ties and exploring avenues to support the voluntary return of Syrian refugees to their country.

The meeting resulted in enhanced security cooperation, reinforced ties between the two ministries and agreement on areas for joint collaboration and coordination.

During the discussions, Faraya said Jordan hosted 1.4 million Syrian refugees in the span of the last 14 years, noting royal directives to provide comprehensive support to Syrian refugees.

He added that refugees in Jordan benefit from free, high-quality services in education, healthcare and social welfare core components of any country that upholds humanitarian values.

Faraya reaffirmed Jordan's support for the voluntary repatriation of Syrian refugees and the efforts to create suitable conditions for their safe return, praising the EU and Austria for their ongoing assistance to Syrian refugees in the region.

The talks addressed reducing illegal immigration by supporting development initiatives in countries of origin, viewing such efforts as effective strategies to curb irregular migration.

Faraya highlighted the importance of international cooperation in combating drug trafficking, emphasising its regional and global impacts. He called for concerted efforts among law enforcement agencies worldwide to control this crime.

As part of the cooperation agreement, Jordan and Austria agreed to enhance collaboration between the Public Security Directorate (PSD) and the Austrian Federal Police, particularly in information exchange and mutual security interests.

In turn, the Austrian Interior Minister praised Jordan's role in regional stability and expressed support for the Kingdom's efforts since the onset of the Syrian conflict.

He commended Jordan's humanitarian work in hosting Syrian refugees and referenced his visit to Jordan in March, during which he assessed conditions in refugee camps and the quality of services provided.

//Petra// AK

07/07/2025 20:17:14