Istanbul: Trkiye and Jordan will strengthen the friendship between the two countries, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Saturday as he met King Abdullah in Istanbul, who arrived on an official visit. Erdogan welcomed the Jordanian monarch at the Dolmabahce Palace, where the two held a one-on-one meeting, followed by talks between their delegations. The meeting was also attended by Turkish National Defense Minister Yasar Guler, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, National Intelligence Organization chief Ibrahim Kalin, and presidential adviser Akif Cagatay Kilic.
According to Anadolu Agency, following the one-on-one meeting, Erdogan was awarded the Order of Al Hussein bin Ali, the highest order of the Kingdom of Jordan. The Royal Hashemite Court stated it was "in recognition of his efforts to strengthen the deep historical ties and distinguished relations between the two countries." Erdogan remarked that in his meetings with King Abdullah, they made decisions that will enhance the friendship between their countries. He noted their shared views on the need for peace, security, and stability in the region and thanked Jordan for its efforts in safeguarding East Jerusalem's holy sites.
Erdogan expressed his gratitude for the award, describing it as a manifestation of the historical ties between Trkiye and Jordan. He believes the order will further cement the brotherhood and friendship between the nations.
King Abdullah praised Trkiye's role in reducing regional tensions and maintaining the sovereignty of countries. He emphasized the commitment to work together for a peaceful Middle East and noted the award as a symbol of appreciation for decades of cooperation. The king expressed hope that it would further advance bilateral relations and benefit both nations and the region.
The meeting was deemed productive, marking a step toward enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including trade, industry, education, transportation, and defense. Before concluding their engagement, Erdogan and King Abdullah shared an official dinner at the palace.