Brussels, 26/10/2010 (Agence Europe) - On Tuesday, Jordan became the first Euro-Mediterranean country that is part of the European neighbourhood policy (ENP) to negotiate an new ENP action plan for the implementation of its “advanced status”. Political agreement on this document was confirmed by the EU-Jordan Association Council which met in Brussels on Tuesday 26 October. Speaking to press, Jordanian Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh, who attended the meeting, welcomed what he considered to be “the acknowledgment by the EU of Jordan's special position in the Middle East and of its political and economic reforms”. Belgian Foreign Minister Steven Vanackere, who chaired the Association Council in the absence of Catherine Ashton, spoke of Jordan as a “role model” for other countries in the region. Judeh said he hoped the new action plan would give real substance to the advanced status partnership between Jordan and the EU. “The new Action Plan reflects the ambitious character of our partnership as well as our shared, deep understanding of the mutual commitment to achieving closer integration,” a joint press release adopted by the Association Council on Tuesday read. The EU reiterated its desire to undertake “increased political dialogue” with Jordan “in all areas of mutual interest”. Democratisation, human rights, fundamental rights and the rule of law remain “essential elements” of both the Association Agreement and the new ENP action plan, the statement says. (H.B./transl.rt)