Áder sees refugee crisis, water shortage as Jordan’s main problems

Financing for the refugee crisis and reducing the effects of drought caused by climate change are currently Jordan’s two most pressing problems, President János Áder said after talks in Amman on Monday.

Áder noted at a press conference that over the past six years 1.5 million refugees fleeing the civil war in Syria had arrived in Jordan. It is right that international bodies should pay the costs of caring for the refugees, he said, adding that Jordan had received only half the money pledged in recent years. This year, only 20 percent came through, and Jordan has lost significant revenue from tourism and transit fees due to the situation, the president noted.

He called Jordan’s achievements in refugee services and maintaining the peace “outstanding”. 

Not only should the region keep the peace but Europe should do more by increasing resources made available to Jordan for refugee services, Áder said, adding that five times the amount was needed this year than payments so far.

Jordan is one of the driest countries in the world and unless the situation changes climate change could result in 30 percent less rainfall by 2050, which would further boost average temperatures, he said.

He said Jordan expressed strong interest in Hungarian agricultural experiences, drought-tolerant plants and irrigation methods.

Jordan’s prime minister will soon visit Hungary to discuss these matters, he said.

Áder arrived for a five-day visit and he was received with military honours by King Abdullah II. He also held talks with Prime Minister Hani al-Mulki, Senate President Faisal al-Fayez and Parliamentary Speaker Atef Tarawneh.

On the second day of his visit, Áder will participate in and address the opening of the 8th World Science Forum.

featured image: MTI

Source: MTI