King directs gov't to have NCSCM as main point of reference on handling COVID-19

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Tuesday directed the government to have the National Centre for Security and Crisis Management (NCSCM) as the main point of reference on handling the COVID-19 crisis, due to its role in unifying efforts, stressing the importance of teamwork among all institutions.

Chairing a National Policies Council (NPC) meeting attended by HRH Crown Prince Hussein, King Abdullah reaffirmed that safeguarding the health and wellbeing of Jordanians is a priority, stressing the need to uphold the rule of law to protect citizens at all times, according to a Royal Court statement.

During the meeting, attended by Their Royal Highnesses Prince Feisal, adviser to His Majesty and NPC chairperson, and Prince Ali, NCSCM chairperson, His Majesty commended the role of the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army and security agencies in upholding the rule of law, noting that no one is above the law.

The King voiced trust in public awareness on dealing with COVID-19, noting the shared social responsibility to safeguard oneself and one’s family by adhering to health and safety measures.

His Majesty said all are responsible in the fight against COVID-19 and urged the public to wear masks and practise social distancing, noting that one person’s failure to abide by safety measures impacts everyone.

The King said the government must work transparently, in coordination with all, to inform the public of its plans and measures, as citizens remain the key partner in overcoming COVID-19.

His Majesty stressed the need for state institutions to support the Royal Medical Services and the King Hussein Medical Centre to ensure the provision of quality medical services to the public.

For his part, Prime Minister Bisher Al Khasawneh said the COVID-19 crisis cell at the NCSCM will be reactivated to guarantee a quick response to pandemic-related developments.

Prime Minister Khasawneh highlighted measures taken by the government to bolster the capacities of the health sector and ensure the protection of healthcare workers.

He said the government has prepared scenarios to deal with developments in the epidemiological situation in a manner that balances health, economic and social concerns.