Austrian and German Interior Ministers Engage in Migration Talks in Jordan

On Wednesday, Austria's Interior Minister Gerhard Karner, representing the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP), embarked on a visit to Jordan alongside his German counterpart Nancy Faeser from the Social Democratic Party (SPD). The purpose of their trip to the capital city of Amman is to engage in discussions with government officials regarding critical issues surrounding migration, refugee matters, and security.

Meetings were held with key Jordanian figures, including Interior Minister Mazen al-Faraya and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi. During these discussions, Minister Karner emphasized the importance of Jordan as a significant partner for Austria in the Middle East. He highlighted the longstanding cooperation between Austria's Cobra unit and Jordan's special forces, as well as the vital exchange of security-related information.

Karner noted that the agenda includes discussions on enhancing police cooperation and addressing the current refugee situation within Jordan. He pointed out the necessity of Jordan's insights and expertise concerning the migration dynamics in the Middle East, underlining that any changes in the region directly affect Europe.

According to the Austrian Interior Ministry, Jordan is home to approximately three million refugees among its eleven million inhabitants. This fact underscores the pressing nature of the talks as officials seek to better understand the challenges faced by refugees and the implications for regional stability.

Minister Faeser articulated that the discussions would also encompass the voluntary return of Syrian refugees to their homeland. Many refugees harbor hopes for peace and the potential for rebuilding their country following the downfall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. She reaffirmed Germany's commitment to continue supporting Jordan in its efforts to accommodate and care for refugees, while also exploring avenues for facilitating voluntary repatriation to Syria.

Reports from the German newspaper 'Bild' suggest that there may be plans for Karner and Faeser to travel to Syria following their meetings in Jordan; however, this information has not been officially confirmed by either the Austrian or German authorities.