China's Permanent Mission to the United Nations has called for increased international cooperation to support Syria in achieving stability and development, emphasizing the need for a Syrian-led and owned political process aligned with UN Security Council Resolution 2254.
https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202501/1326549.shtmlPakistan's security experts have recommended that the country engage with the Taliban leadership in Kandahar to address concerns about the presence of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) hideouts in Afghanistan. The experts believe that talking directly to the Taliban supreme leader, Haibatullah Akhundzada, can help resolve issues such as cross-border terrorism and trade. They argue that this channel of communication is crucial for resolving outstanding issues between Pakistan and Afghanistan. The experts also noted that the TTP has changed its operational strategy by reducing attacks on civilians and increasing attacks on security forces. They suggested that Pakistan's counter-terrorism policy needs to be holistic, involving local communities in addition to kinetic operations. Some experts argued that there was no harm in restarting the dialogue process with the TTP. However, not all experts agreed on this approach. The President of the Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS), Muhammad Amir Rana, opposed the idea of restarting talks with the TTP, arguing that it would give legitimacy to militancy and provide fuel to it. He emphasized that the TTP is an existential threat to Pakistan and there should be zero tolerance for the group. The experts also discussed other issues such as the negative role of social media in intensifying conflict in the Kurram district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the need for Pakistan to work with China to evolve projects that benefit local communities. They highlighted the importance of a civilian-led approach to resolving conflicts in Pakistan. Overall, the experts emphasized the need for a comprehensive and holistic approach to addressing security challenges in Pakistan, involving both military and civilian efforts, as well as engagement with regional stakeholders.
https://www.brecorder.com/news/40341795/country-should-engage-with-kandahar-based-taliban-leadership-suggest-expertsAmbassador Sohail Mahmood praised Japan's role as a key partner in Pakistan's development journey, highlighting the need for enhanced collaboration in areas such as trade, investment, climate change, and cultural exchanges. He also emphasized the importance of academic and policy dialogues between the two countries. Japanese Ambassador Akamatsu Shuichi expressed hope for continued cooperation to address regional and global challenges, while appreciating efforts by the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) to foster mutual understanding through scholarly exchanges. Prof Dr Kawashima Shin discussed Japan's modernization and its evolving role in regional geopolitics, highlighting its commitment to peace, democracy, and regional cooperation. He emphasized Japan's dedication to fostering economic and cultural ties within the region and maintaining open dialogues with neighboring countries to ensure stability.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi held talks with senior European Union officials in Amman, Jordan on strengthening relations between Jordan and the EU. The discussions focused on finalizing a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement that would enhance economic, investment, trade, defense, and security cooperation. Safadi met with European Council President Antonio Costa, who commended King Abdullah's leadership in resolving regional crises and achieving peace. The talks also covered regional developments, including efforts to achieve an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the situation in Syria. Safadi discussed ways to deepen Jordan-EU cooperation on regional challenges and shared concerns with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas. He also met with European Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič and Chair of EU Political and Security Committee Delphine Pronk, emphasizing the need to end Israeli aggression in Gaza and provide humanitarian aid.
https://www.jordantimes.com/news/local/safadi-holds-talks-eu-senior-officials-bilateral-relations-gaza-syriaThe Philippines is looking to strengthen its relationship with the United States, particularly under President-elect Joe Biden's administration, according to Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo. In an interview with CNA, Manalo expressed hope that the new administration will continue to support the country's development and security goals. He specifically mentioned the importance of US assistance in areas such as infrastructure development, economic growth, and maritime security, particularly in the South China Sea.
https://channelnewsasia.com/watch/cna-exclusive-philippine-foreign-minister-enrique-manalo-hopeful-us-alliance-will-stay-strong-4845851Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen expressed openness to cooperating with the US on Arctic issues, citing legitimate American interests in the region due to international events such as Russia's arming and China's growing interest. He urged calm amid rising tensions, noting that the Danish Realm is open to dialogue with the Americans to ensure their ambitions are fulfilled. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen also downplayed the possibility of military force being used by the US in its pursuit of Greenland, calling for cool heads to prevail.
https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/denmark-says-open-to-dialogue-with-us-on-arctic/article69077976.eceSheikh Abdullah emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive peace agreement based on the two-state solution to achieve stability and security in the region. He highlighted the importance of concerted efforts to reach a permanent ceasefire and prevent conflict expansion, prioritizing civilian lives and humanitarian aid delivery. The UAE supports mediation efforts by Qatar, Egypt, and the US to broker a prisoner exchange agreement, which could lead to a permanent ceasefire and safe humanitarian aid delivery. Sheikh Abdullah underscored that building peace is key to establishing lasting stability and fulfilling the aspirations of the Palestinian people for comprehensive development and a dignified life.
https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/uae-foreign-minister-discusses-escalating-humanitarian-crisis-in-gaza-with-israel-fmSheikh Abdullah emphasized the importance of prioritizing civilian lives and humanitarian aid in the region, citing the need for a permanent ceasefire and safe aid delivery into the enclave. He also expressed support for Qatari, Egyptian, and US mediation efforts to reach an exchange deal and highlighted the UAE's long-standing solidarity with Palestinians. Additionally, Sheikh Abdullah called for intensified international action to combat extremism, hatred, and racism, promoting values of tolerance, coexistence, and human fraternity instead.
https://www.thenationalnews.com/news/uae/2025/01/07/sheikh-abdullah-israel-gideon-saar/Huneiti, a representative of the Joint Armed Forces (JAF), emphasized the need for cooperation between Syria and Jordan to address shared border challenges and maintain regional stability. He stated that the JAF is prepared to utilize its resources and capabilities to enhance security and protect the interests of both countries. Meanwhile, Abu Qusra highlighted the historical ties between Syria and Jordan, reaffirming Syria's commitment to strengthening collaboration with Jordan. He also praised King Abdullah for his efforts in promoting peace and stability across the region.
https://www.jordantimes.com/news/local/army-chief-syrian-defence-minister-discuss-security-military-cooperation