| King Abdullah II in Australia: A Partnership to Strengthen Security, Peace and Humanitarian Cooperation |
** “Respect for the sovereignty and security of Arab states, together with dialogue and diplomacy, are essential pillars of regional stability.”
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King Abdullah II in Australia: A Partnership to Strengthen Security, Peace and Humanitarian Cooperation
13 October 2026
SYDNEY – Middle East Times Int’l: His Majesty King Abdullah II held a series of meetings in the Australian capital, Canberra, on Tuesday, focusing on strengthening Jordanian–Australian relations in defence, security, politics, parliamentary affairs and healthcare. Discussions also addressed regional developments and international efforts to reduce tensions and uphold state sovereignty.
The meetings reflected both countries’ commitment to expanding cooperation and exchanging expertise to advance shared interests, support security and peace, and respond to humanitarian challenges.
Strengthening Defence and Security Cooperation
The King met Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles to discuss ways to strengthen defence and security cooperation between Jordan and Australia, contributing to regional stability.
During discussions on regional developments, His Majesty stressed the importance of intensifying international efforts to de-escalate tensions through dialogue and diplomacy, emphasising the need to respect the sovereignty of Arab states and safeguard their security.
** The meeting was attended by Jordan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Ayman Safadi; Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Major General Yousef Majdi Al-Huneiti?
Parliamentary Meetings and a Call for Calm
King Abdullah II also met President of the Australian Senate Sue Lines and Speaker of the House of Representatives Milton Dick, and signed the visitors’ book at the Australian Parliament.
His Majesty expressed appreciation for Australia’s positions on regional and international issues, reaffirming Jordan’s commitment to strengthening cooperation between the two countries, particularly in political and parliamentary affairs.
Discussions highlighted the importance of intensifying international efforts to restore calm in the region. The King stressed the need to halt attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank, Gaza and Jerusalem, and to support Syria and Lebanon in preserving their security and sovereignty.
A Partnership in Mental Health and Humanitarian Support
In the healthcare field, His Majesty met representatives of Australian government institutions and non-profit organisations working in mental health to explore opportunities for closer cooperation and draw on Australia’s experience in developing services.
The meeting examined ways to establish a strategic partnership to exchange expertise and implement training and professional development programmes, supporting improvements in mental health services and psychosocial support in Jordan.
His Majesty reaffirmed Jordan’s commitment to strengthening these services, noting the Kingdom’s role in hosting refugees and providing them with healthcare and humanitarian assistance, alongside its medical and humanitarian efforts in conflict zones.
The meeting was attended by Director of the King’s Office Alaa Batayneh; Minister of Health Dr Ibrahim Al-Budour; Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Major General Majdi Al-Harasis; Jordan’s Ambassador to Australia Janti Qalajoqa; and Director General of the Royal Medical Services Brigadier General Dr Sahel Hammouri. |
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