Egypt, Jordan, Iraq trilateral co-operation mechanism model for joint Arab action

Egypt’s ‏Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukri said Egypt, Jordan and Iraq are acting to boost co-operation to achieve stability in the Middle East.

‏Shoukri made these remarks at a press conference following a tripartite summit in Amman yesterday with his Jordanian counterpart Ayman al-Safadi and Iraq’s Fouad Hussein.

‏Indeed, co-operation among the three countries contributes to achieving security and stability in the region, the Egyptian top diplomat said.

‏Shoukri also said that the established trilateral co-operation mechanism between Egypt, Jordan and Iraq is a model for joint Arab action.

‏”The trilateral mechanism aims to strengthen the existing ties based on integration between our countries, as well as enhance economic opportunities,” Shoukri said, adding that it also aims to stabilise the situation in the Middle East and intensify joint Arab action.

He also announced an upcoming meeting of the ministers of the three countries in Iraq, with the aim of pushing the implementation of various projects and exploring other areas of co-operation.

‏The Baghdad conference will be held to affirm Iraq’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, Shoukri said, stressing Egypt’s keenness to attend every occasion that leads to strengthening Iraq’s capabilities, as Iraq is essential to preserving Arab national security.

‏“What afflicted Iraq in the past has had a negative impact on preserving Arab national security and the continuation of joint Arab action,” he said.

‏Speaking alongside Shoukri, Jordan’s Safadi said his country and Egypt stand by the side of Iraq in its efforts to achieve security and stability. He ‏said he is looking forward to enhancing co-operation and coordination with the new Iraqi government.

‏For his part, Iraqi Foreign Minister Hussein said the trilateral co-operation mechanism with Egypt and Jordan is meant to boost joint action among the three countries in the fields of trade, industry, economy, land transport, power linkage and energy.

‏The Jordanian foreign minister stressed importance of continued coordination and consultation with Egypt and Iraq to serve all Arab causes.

‏He referred to an upcoming meeting in Baghdad to prepare for a summit Egypt will host next year, noting that Jordan will host the second edition of Baghdad Conference in December and preparations are under way, with a view to putting into effect all agreed upon projects.

‏For his part, the Iraqi foreign minister said a number of topics figured high during the talks, including economic issues, along with preparations for an Arab-Chinese Summit scheduled to take place in Riyadh.