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|b The MESC organized a political salon on the Repercussions of the Syrian Crisis on Jordan to discuss the economic, political, security and social consequences. For instance, in terms of economy, the participants argued that the flow of Syrian refugees added to the financial pressures on the kingdom, which already suffers from deficit, debts and unemployment. It also affected the size of health and educational services; subsidy of fuel and bread; land transportation sector and flow of goods between the two countries. \ With regard to politics, the participants believed that the Jordanian government’s fears of the fall or survival of the Syrian regime have confused the internal scene and its progress for reform. The fall of Bashar as well as the rise of a democratic government would enhance the chances for democratic shifts in the entire Arab region, including the kingdom. On the other hand, if he stays, some predict that such shifts will be hampered. \ With reference to the military and security impacts on the kingdom, the participants mentioned the high costs paid to prevent any forms of infiltration of national security. Furthermore, raising alertness and taking utmost readiness at military and security departments affect the programmes of various ranks and units as wells need high sums which traditional budgets cannot hold. \ On the social side, since the beginning of the crisis, the state has not specified a single official body to deal with it in a professional, comprehensive way – which could have alleviated the consequences at all levels. \ Finally, the participants called for restraint so that internal contradictions would not come to the fore and clashes would not erupt to make civil of regional wars, which attritions the capacities of the Arab nation. Incitation of such disputes needs to be avoided, regardless of any sectarian, ideological or political reasons. They also recommended dealing with the Syrian crisis in a transparent, professional manner in a bid to ease its negative impacts and preserve national unity and security.
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