Reassuring words

His Majesty King Abdullah, at a meeting with community leaders and dignitaries from the Mafraq Governorate on Wednesday, assured that the northern border with Syria is secure, allaying fears of the residents of this northeastern town, as well as those of Jordanians in general.

“The northern border of the Kingdom is tight and safe, and our Arab Army and security bodies are capable of protecting it,” the King told his audience, who he met at the Royal Court.

The King’s assurances could not have been more timely, considering the deteriorating situation in Syria.

They also assuage fears of the outcome of the continued influx of Syrian refugees, especially following the recent clashes between the Syrian armed forces and the medley of opposition fighters.

Assurances to the Mafraq people are assurances to the rest of the country.

Jordanians’ confidence in the strength and preparedness of the army must never be shaken, as the stability and security of the Kingdom depend heavily on that.

No less important than the security dimension are, of course, the economic and social aspects affected by the influx of so many Syrian refugees, into the Mafraq region in particular, which taxes the infrastructure and resources, straining the socioeconomic situation in the governorate.

“The biggest problem is the economic situation,” said the King, acknowledging the gravity of the economic conditions, compounded by the presence of thousands of Syrian refugees in the labour market, which also put a strain on the local housing and education system.

Not to be forgotten should be the medical facilities in Mafraq, which could hardly cope with the health needs of the people of the area even before the mass arrival of Syrian refugees to the region.

The King voiced confidence that the pledges made at the recently held London donor conference will be a beginning that all Jordanians will have to build on to overcome the socioeconomic hardships and challenges.

It is no doubt comforting that the Monarch should speak directly to the people of Mafraq, who now must feel assured of their future and well-being in the face of the challenges facing the Kingdom.

As a matter of fact, all Jordanians should feel secure and work in earnest to take advantage of the international community’s goodwill towards their country.