The Republic of Uzbekistan has unequivocally condemned a deadly armed attack targeting an Orthodox church in the Jordanian province of Karak, which claimed the lives of nine people and left dozens injured. Following the tragedy, Uzbek Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov held a telephone conversation with Jordan's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Ayman Safadi.

The assault occurred on October 23 in the village of Hamoud. According to official reports, three armed assailants opened fire on a crowd gathered for a funeral service outside the Greek Orthodox Church of Saint George. Jordanian security forces responded rapidly to the scene, apprehending all three suspects implicated in the violent incident.

During the call, Saidov conveyed his deep condolences to the families of the victims and expressed solidarity with the people and authorities of Jordan, while wishing a swift and complete recovery to the wounded. The Uzbek diplomatic envoy reiterated Tashkent’s uncompromising stance against any manifestations of violent extremism and attacks on religious institutions.

The two foreign ministers also exchanged views on the increasingly fragile landscape across the Middle East. Both diplomats stressed the urgent need to address the region's mounting tensions through peaceful political and diplomatic avenues, emphasizing that long-term regional security and stability cannot be achieved through perpetual military escalation.

Furthermore, the conversation touched upon expanding bilateral cooperation between Tashkent and Amman. The discussions focused on preparations for upcoming diplomatic engagements, enhancing bilateral trade, boosting investment partnerships, and exploring opportunities in tourism. This dialogue builds on recent momentum, including a high-level visit to Jordan by an Uzbek government delegation led by Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade Laziz Kudratov.

Source: podrobno.uz