Minister of Planning and International Cooperation Nasser Shraideh and Belgian Minister of Development Cooperation Meryame Kitir discussed ways of enhancing economic and development relations between the two countries.

Shraideh briefed the Belgian Minister and an accompanying delegation, in the presence of Belgian Ambassador Filip Vanden Bulcke, on the government’s 2021-2023 work priorities, and the efforts made to put the economy on a recovery path, according to a ministry statement.

He spoke about the impact of the Syrian refugee crisis and the situation of refugees in the host communities and refugee camps, the direction of aid and how to mitigate the impact of hosting displaced Syrians on the Kingdom.

He urged the international community to shoulder their responsibility towards the refugee-hosting countries in light of shrinking aid pledged by donors in the last two years, calling for adequate funding to the Jordanian response plan for the year 2021.

The Belgian minister stressed her country's deep relations with Jordan and voiced understanding of the additional burdens placed on the government, pledging to continue support for the Kingdom and look for additional ways to bolster bilateral relations, particularly regarding the issue of Syrian refugees in the region.

She commended Jordan for its humanitarian role in receiving and hosting Syrian refugees and providing them with basic services.