Clinton offers Jordan support in ‘difficult times’

US Secretary of State stresses importance that Washington places on ‘continued excellent relationship with Jordan’.

Middle East Online, Feb 4, 2011

‘We are eager to continue to support Jordan’ WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton offered support for Jordan Thursday in “difficult times” and said she looked forward to working with its new government when she spoke to King Abdullah II, her spokesman said. The king on Tuesday named as prime minister Maruf Bakhit, a career soldier and former premier, after sacking the government of Samir Rifai, following weeks of protests to demand political and economic reforms. Clinton made a 15-minute call to Abdullah indicating the United States is looking “forward to working with Prime Minister Bakhit and members of the new Jordanian cabinet,” Clinton spokesman Philip Crowley told reporters. The chief US diplomat stressed “the importance that we place on the continued excellent relationship with Jordan. We are eager to continue to support Jordan during these difficult times.” The protests in Jordan are part of a wave of anti-government unrest sweeping Tunisia, Egypt, and Yemen. Continues >>