Council adopts an EPF assistance measure in support of country’s Armed Forces

The Council adopted an assistance measure under the European Peace Facility (EPF) worth €13.25 million in support of the Jordanian Armed Forces (JAF).

On the backdrop of an increasingly volatile regional context, the assistance measure will contribute to strengthening the capacities of JAF, to increase their ability to ensure Jordan’s stability and national security, and protect the civilian population. Concretely, the measure will support the Northern and Eastern JAF Commands with detection and counter measures systems, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems, as well as mobility and engineering equipment.

Today’s decision is an expression of the increasing EU-Jordan partnership, including in the field of security and defence. Jordan is a key partner for the EU and its member states, in view of its instrumental role for the stability of the region, as a voice of moderation and peace.

At the 15^th EU-Jordan Association Council held on 15 July 2024 in Brussels, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell and the Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi agreed to further upgrade bilateral relations by launching preparations for a Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership. This will allow to further advance cooperation between the EU and Jordan in key areas of mutual interest, including in the field of security and defence.

Today’s adoption marks an important step towards an increasingly growing security and defence cooperation between the EU and Jordan.

Background

The European Peace Facility was established in March 2021 to finance EU external actions with military or defence implications, with the aim of preventing conflict, preserving peace, and strengthening international security and stability. In particular, the EPF allows the EU to finance actions designed to strengthen the capacities of third states and regional and international organizations as regards military and defence matters.