Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken is set to visit Aqaba, Jordan, and Ankara, Türkiye from December 11 to 13, 2024. During his trip, Secretary Blinken will engage with leaders to address developments in Syria, Israel, Gaza, Lebanon, and the broader region.
The Secretary plans to reaffirm the United States' commitment to supporting a Syrian-led transition towards an accountable and representative government. Discussions will focus on ensuring that this transition respects minority rights, facilitates humanitarian aid flow, prevents Syria from becoming a terrorism base or regional threat, and secures chemical weapons stockpiles for safe destruction. Secretary Blinken will emphasize U.S. support for Syria's neighbors during this period and highlight the ongoing need for protection access for displaced Syrians in the region.
In addition to these discussions, Secretary Blinken aims to address the urgent need for a ceasefire agreement in Gaza. This agreement would secure hostage releases and facilitate further humanitarian assistance to vulnerable Palestinian civilians while maintaining the cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hizballah.
Antony J. Blinken 71st U.S. Secretary of State
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While in Aqaba, Secretary Blinken will meet with senior Jordanian officials to discuss various bilateral issues. He intends to underscore the strong strategic partnership between the United States and Jordan and express U.S. support for regional stability during Syria's transition period.
In Ankara, discussions with senior Turkish officials will cover ongoing bilateral cooperation on shared priorities such as counterterrorism and regional stability. Türkiye is recognized as a valued NATO ally.
