Amman, March 23 (Petra) – UK Minister for International Development, Baroness Chapman, began a visit to Jordan on Sunday to announce new support for refugees and host communities in the country.

In a statement, the British Embassy in Amman highlighted that Jordan hosts one of the world’s largest refugee populations. Funding from the Global Concessional Financing Facility (GCFF) aims to enhance essential services, create economic opportunities, and develop critical infrastructure, improving living conditions and ensuring a more sustainable future for refugees.

As part of this effort, the UK is providing £4 million in funding to help alleviate pressures that often drive refugees toward irregular migration routes.

During her visit, Chapman is scheduled to meet with Finance Minister Abdelhakim Shibli and Minister of International Cooperation and Planning Zeina Toukan. The minister also recognizes Jordan's pivotal role in hosting more than 3.5 million refugees from regional conflicts.

She will also visit the Azraq refugee camp for Syrian refugees and oversee the departure of aid convoys bound for Gaza. Additionally, she will discuss Jordan’s ongoing humanitarian efforts and the challenges posed by the Israeli blockade with the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization.

"My visit comes at a critical moment. The violence in Gaza must stop immediately only diplomacy, not bloodshed, can ensure security for both Palestinians and Israelis," Chapman said.

She added that the UK’s newly announced funding will help improve the lives of many refugees, create local opportunities, and offer a more sustainable future for vulnerable populations while addressing the root causes of migration that push people toward dangerous journeys. "This is a crucial step toward fostering stability and improving the lives of those most in need," she said.

Chapman also praised Jordan’s pivotal role in facilitating humanitarian aid to Gaza and its leadership in developing the Arab reconstruction plan. "By working with international partners we can help secure a future where Palestinians can remain in their homeland," she noted.

Her visit follows a call between UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and His Majesty King Abdullah II on Saturday, during which Starmer expressed his gratitude for Jordan’s leadership in promoting stability in the Middle East and reaffirmed his commitment to working together toward a lasting peace for both Palestinians and Israelis.

//Petra// AF

23/03/2025 21:24:01