AMMAN — Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation in Jordan Gleb F. Desyatnikov has voiced his country’s keenness on expanding ties with Jordan across all sectors, in addition to enhancing political cooperation on regional and international issues of mutual concern.

 

During a recent wide-ranging interview with The Jordan Times’ Editor-in-Chief Raed Omari, Desyatnikov has underlined the “strong” Russian-Jordanian political dialogue and alignment on key regional issues, particularly the Middle East peace process.

 

“We are satisfied with the current state of our bilateral relations. We regularly maintain a trusting political dialogue with our Jordanian partners across the full spectrum of key regional and international issues. Given the current realities in the Middle East, it is crucial to communicate with each other and share our understanding of current developments,” he said.

 

Desyatnikov said that Russia views Jordan as a pivotal regional partner, and as a stabilising force in the Middle East.

 

He also said that Moscow acknowledged Jordan’s growing role in supporting Syria’s recovery through renewed political and economic ties with Damascus.

 

On broader regional tensions, the ambassador said that Russia has called for diplomatic solutions, particularly regarding the situation involving Iran, emphasizing in this regard the importance of multilateral dialogue and international law in resolving conflicts.

 

Economic cooperation with Jordan is also on the rise, the ambassador said, with both sides preparing for the 7th session of the Russian-Jordanian Intergovernmental Commission.

 

He also identified trade and tourism as key growth areas, supported by a recent visa-free regime and the introduction of regular direct flights, which have boosted Russian tourism to Jordan.

 

Russian exporters, especially in grain, meat, and oil, are increasingly targeting the Jordanian market, where demand for these products remains high, he said.

 

“Plans are underway to open a Russian Export Center pavilion in Amman to further promote trade and connect businesses from both countries.”

 

He also underlined the expanding cultural and educational exchanges between the two countries, citing increasing numbers of Jordanian students enrolling in Russian universities.

 

“Academic programmes, youth exchanges, and cultural initiatives, supported by institutions such as the Russian House in Amman, continue to strengthen people-to-people ties between the two nations.”

 

Following is the full interview with the Russian Ambassador Gleb F. Desyatnikov:

 

How would you describe the current state of relations between Russia and Jordan?

 

We are satisfied with the current state of our bilateral relations. We regularly maintain a trusting political dialogue with our Jordanian partners across the full spectrum of key regional and international issues. Given the current realities in the Middle East, it is crucial to communicate with each other and share our understanding of current developments. Our approaches coincide on the vast majority of regional issues. This primarily concerns the Middle East peace process. Our trade and economic relations are also developing quite well. The 7th meeting of the Russian-Jordanian Intergovernmental Commission will be held in the foreseeable future. We will discuss in detail the prospects for further development of bilateral relations and expect good results from these meetings.

 

In which sectors do you see the greatest potential for expanding Russia-Jordanian cooperation?

 

This is undoubtedly tourism and mutual trade. We see that the Jordanian route is enjoying growing demand among Russians. Jordan's unique cultural and historical heritage is truly of interest to them. It's already safe to say that the introduction of a visa-free regime between our countries at the end of last year and the establishment of regular direct flights, now three per week, were the right decisions made by Moscow and Amman. Trade indicators are also encouraging, and we plan to expand the range of goods we sell to each other.

 

Are there specific Russian industries interested in entering the Jordanian market?

 

These are still our grain, meat and oil producers. They see the Jordanian market as very promising and are eager to enter. Their products are highly valued here and therefore in demand. Russia remains a reliable supplier of food, primarily grain. This is our reputation, and we have many grateful clients in the Middle East.

 

What steps are being taken to encourage more Jordanian businesses to work with Russian partners?

 

We are interested in further expanding the range of products we supply to the Jordanian market. To this end, we plan to open a National Pavilion of the Russian Export Center in Amman in the near future. This will be a specialized space where potential Jordanian partners can learn about Russian products and even taste them, establish business contacts with producers and suppliers from Russia.

 

How important is Jordan to Russia`s broader Middle East strategy?

 

Jordan remains a key player in many processes unfolding in the Middle East today. I know this is a common cliché, but the Kingdom is rightfully considered a geopolitical oasis amid the region's raging passions—a tremendous achievement of the country's leadership. Jordan will remain an important regional state for us, on whose opinion much depends here—we have always listened to this opinion and will continue to do so.

 

How does Moscow assess the current situation in Syria and what role can Jordan play in future stability there?

 

We maintain contact with the Syrian leadership. We are trying to help them and the entire Syrian nation overcome these difficult times and begin the country's orderly post-crisis recovery. Clearly, much work remains to be done; this is truly a challenge for the Syrians. We see how well relations between Damascus and Amman are developing, with trade and economic ties and political dialogue being restored. All of this provides significant support for Syria, which we want to see united, independent, and prosperous.

 

How does Moscow view the ongoing Iran war? How does Russia view the evolving political dynamics in the region?

 

In the context of events surrounding Iran, it's clear to everyone that we've reached a dangerous point. The conflict must be resolved as quickly as possible through political and diplomatic means. We support any mediation efforts, whether regional or international, that can put an end to the escalation. Clearly, the problem is extremely serious and requires a comprehensive approach. Russia has long been proposing to interested countries to consider our Collective Security Concept for the Persian Gulf Area, which, among other things, envisions open and trusting dialogue between the Gulf states on the full range of issues affecting their coexistence. Why not follow this path?

 

What role do you think multilateral diplomacy should play in resolving current international conflicts?

 

Multilateral diplomacy must play a key role in such cases. This is precisely why the UN was created and its Charter was drafted. But unfortunately, it seems that international law is no longer the guiding principle and fundamental element of the international relations system. But it's well known that "might makes right" doesn't work in the long run; it doesn't bring peace and security to nations. Humanity has passed this point in its history, but it seems the necessary lessons haven't been learned.

 

Cultural exchange often strengthens diplomatic ties. What programs exist between Russia and Jordan in education and culture?

 

There are quite a few. We are developing various formats of academic exchanges, student and youth programs, scientific and expert contacts. The Russian House in Amman is engaged in extensive cultural and educational activities. I recommend visiting it to anyone interested in Russian culture, science, education, our country in general, its language and history.

 

Are more Jordanian students studying in Russian universities?

 

The number of Jordanian students choosing to study at Russian universities is steadily growing and demonstrating a consistent positive trend. The Russian House in Amman has registered a record number of applications for study at Russian universities this year. Jordanian youth increasingly view Russia as an attractive and reliable educational market, combining a high academic standard with a wide range of programs, including engineering, medicine and IT. As you know, Russia remains a global leader in these areas.