German FM stresses European role in Mideast

Visiting German Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer on Sunday stressed in Amman European role in stabilizing the situation in Middle East.

After talking with his Jordanian counterpart Marwan Muasher, Fischer said in a press conference that the European Union is committed to the roadmap peace plan and the UN Security Council resolutions.

The Israeli withdrawal and dismantling of settlements would contribute to achieving a breakthrough in the peace process, he added.

Fischer pointed out that Europe is keen to have close relations with Jordan to achieve a breakthrough in the region despite difficulties facing the Middle East peace process.

On bilateral relations, Fischer said he had briefed Muasher on the outcome of his talks in Beirut and Damascus, noting that the talks also touched on the situation in Iraq.

For his part, Muasher said his meeting with Fischer discussed the current situation in the region, particularly the peace process and developments in Iraq.

The Jordanian top diplomat told reporters that his country urges Israel to implement roadmap completely, saying it is an international plan that was approved by the concerned parties.

On the hunger strike of the Jordanian and Palestinian detainees in the Israeli jails, Muasher said that the government has continuous contacts with the Israeli government and with the International Committee of the Red Cross to follow up the detainees' situation.

Meanwhile, Muasher reaffirmed the Jordanian government's support for the Iraqi government, indicating that Jordan is concerned in establishing strong ties with Iraq.

Fischer started his regional tour on Friday. He has visited Lebanon and Syria, and will travel to Israel and Egypt.

Source: Xinhua