White House hopeful Ben Carson visits Syrian refugees in Jordan

It comes just days after the Republican compared refugees fleeing Syria to rabid dogs.

The retired neurosurgeon, who grew up in a poor family before winning a scholarship to Yale University, has fanned controversy in the United States for anti-Muslim and anti-refugee remarks. John LocheShow more

AZRAQ REFUGEE CAMP, Jordan // Republican presidential candidate Ben Carson said on Saturday, after visiting a camp for Syrian refugees, that the displaced should be absorbed by Middle Eastern countries, with the international community sending aid and “encouragement” to the host nations.

Mr Carson toured the Azraq camp in northern Jordan under heavy Jordanian security, with journalists barred. Mr Carson’s campaign also limited access, not providing his itinerary and releasing only a short statement after the camp visit.

The candidate has repeatedly struggled to discuss international affairs as they become a greater focus in the 2016 presidential contest. Advisers have conceded that his foreign policy fluency isn’t where it needs to be and have expressed hope that missions like his two-day trip to Jordan will help to change that.

Mr Carson and other Republicans have adopted a harsh tone when discussing president Barack Obama’s plan to welcome 10,000 Syrian refugees to the US.

* Associated Press