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-   His Majesty says JHCO helps Jordan fulfil its humanitarian duty, especially to people in Gaza

-    King bestows Silver Jubilee Medal on JHCO, received by Prince Rashid 

-       Prince Rashid stresses JHCO's keenness to implement King's directives 

-       Organisation's secretary-general says nearly 73,000 tonnes of aid sent to Gaza since start of war

-       He says JHCO will expand its warehouses to add 10,000 square metres of storage space

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Tuesday expressed pride in the humanitarian and relief efforts of the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organisation (JHCO) and its staff, stressing the need to build on its expertise to make Jordan a regional hub for humanitarian response.

During a visit to JHCO warehouses in Ghabawi, Zarqa Governorate, His Majesty stressed that the organisation helps Jordan fulfil its humanitarian duty, especially to the people in Gaza, according to a Royal Court statement.

During the visit, the King checked on the preparation of the largest aid convoy to Gaza to date, consisting of 120 trucks loaded with food, relief, and medical aid. This is the 140th convoy to the Strip since the start of the war.

His Majesty bestowed the Silver Jubilee Medal on JHCO, received by HRH Prince Rashid, chairman of JHCO’s board of trustees, in recognition of the organisation’s efforts to provide emergency aid, assistance, and relief to many countries in times of disaster and conflict, the statement said.

During a meeting attended by JHCO’s board of trustees, Prince Rashid spoke about JHCO’s 35 years of efforts to provide relief to those in need, stressing the organisation’s keenness to implement the King's directives to strengthen Jordan's position as a beacon of humanitarian work at the regional and international levels.

His Majesty also listened to a briefing by JHCO Secretary General Hussein Shibli, who noted that the amount of aid sent to Gaza since the start of the war has reached nearly 73,000 tonnes, at a total value of more than $212 million in donations from Jordanians, as well as other countries and international organisations, benefiting nearly 1.4 million people in the Strip, the statement said.

Shibli added that in response to the King's directives, JHCO will expand its warehouses to add 10,000 square metres of storage space.

He said that 245 people in Gaza have benefited to date from the Restoring Hope initiative to fit amputees with prosthetic limbs, implemented by the Royal Medical Services.

Shibli also spoke about JHCO’s efforts in 2024 to provide relief to Syria and Lebanon, with 563 tonnes dispatched to Syria, and 210 tonnes to Lebanon.

Since its establishment 35 years ago, the JHCO has sent food, medical, and shelter aid to 42 countries affected by natural disasters, wars, and famine.

Royal Hashemite Court Chief Yousef Issawi and Director of the Office of His Majesty Alaa Batayneh accompanied His Majesty on the visit.

AMMAN — A report by government performance monitor “Rased” assessed the effectiveness of Prime Minister Jafar Hassan's government after its first 100 days in office, revealing that the government's decisions in the areas of development and services accounted for the lion share at 25 per cent of the total 153 decisions made.

The finding showed that modernising the public sector followed closely with 22 per cent, while economic modernisation accounted for 20 per cent, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra.

International relations and agreements accounted for 9 per cent, legislative reform for 7 per cent and decisions on energy and water for 5 per cent. 

The local government sector accounted for 4 per cent of decisions, and the social sector was the least addressed with 3 per cent.

The study also tracked the prime minister's field visits, with 16 trips to 8 governorates, in addition to the northern and central Badia. 

These tours covered 47 facilities, including 10 schools, 9 health centres, 7 government offices, 7 factories, 4 associations, 4 youth clubs, 2 social protection homes and various tourism, environmental and leisure facilities, as well as a public university.

The report found that 17 visits were related to improving the quality of life, 14 focused on promoting leadership and innovation, and 6 aimed to support high-value industries. 

Rased's team analysed the visits through the lens of the government's vision for economic modernisation and found that healthcare (9 visits) and education (7 visits) were the most targeted sectors, with additional attention given to food security and local development.

The modernisation of the public sector also received significant attention, with 20 visits focusing on government service facilities, 6 on process development and digitalisation, and 3 on improving policy-making practices.

The report also included a survey of members of the 20th Lower House's session, which showed that 66 per cent of lawmakers felt the government was capable of fulfilling its responsibilities within the first 100 days. Party leaders echoed this sentiment, with 53 per cent expressing confidence in the government's ability to meet its commitments and deliver results.

AMMAN — Prime Minister Jafar Hassan on Tuesday reiterated that the government and private sector share a unified vision, working together as partners to implement the Economic Modernisation Vision and drive sustainable national economic growth.

During a meeting with representatives of the commercial sector, organized by the Jordan Chamber of Commerce, Hassan highlighted the pivotal role of the trade and services sector, the Jordan News Agency, Petra reported. 

"As the largest contributor to the national economy, accounting for two-thirds of economic activity and employment, the sector is vital for achieving the Vision's ambitious goals," Hassan said.

The prime minister also tasked the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Supply with convening monthly meetings involving relevant ministers, institutions, and stakeholders to collaboratively address challenges and build on initiatives aimed at bolstering the economy. 

Hassan also detailed a multi-level government strategy, with the first focusing on executing the Economic Modernisation Vision.

"From the outset, the government has engaged in consultations with economic sectors to update priorities and requirements for the Vision’s executive programme for 2025."

He added that the programme features clear timelines and mechanisms to ensure timely project implementation and prevent delays or setbacks. 

On the second level, Hassan stressed field and local engagement through monthly Cabinet meetings with elected bodies and representatives from chambers of industry and commerce across governorates. 

"These discussions aim to align budgetary projects with local priorities and foster shared responsibility in their execution."

Addressing regional challenges, the prime minister expressed hope for improved conditions, calling for an end to the aggression on Gaza to expedite humanitarian aid and support a political process ensuring stability and security in the region while mitigating economic repercussions. 

He also reiterated Jordan’s support for the Syrian people, highlighting cooperative efforts in sectors such as trade, transport, and energy to strengthen ties between the two countries. 

On domestic and foreign investments, Hassan reiterated the government’s commitment to launching major projects in water, railways, transport, and infrastructure throughout the year, with details to be unveiled progressively, aiming to create jobs, improve services, and deliver tangible economic benefits.

Hassan also stressed the importance of linking economic modernisation with administrative reforms to simplify procedures, reduce bureaucracy, and foster a business-friendly environment. "Recognising the private sector’s vital role, the government is focused on encouraging local, Arab, and foreign investments." 

Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply Yarub Qudah highlighted the private sector as a strategic partner and commended government efforts to remove obstacles and promote growth. 

Chairman of the Amman Chamber of Commerce Khalil Hajj Tawfiq commended the government’s proactive engagement with the private sector, noting the positive impact of stimulus decisions taken within the first 100 days of its formation, which have eased burdens on various sectors.

AMMAN — Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi on Tuesday met with Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen,  emphasising their countries' shared commitment to enhancing bilateral relations through a clear roadmap focused on key sectors.

 They also emphasised the importance of formalising agreements and fostering cooperation between the private sectors to promote economic and developmental growth, according to a Foreign Ministry statement.

The talks also focused on efforts to broker a ceasefire in Gaza, aiming to stop the Israeli aggression on Gaza and ensure the delivery of vital humanitarian aid into the besieged Strip.

In a joint press conference following the talks, Safadi underscored the strength of Jordanian-Danish relations, highlighting the potential for a strategic partnership in the economic, defence, and investment fields. 

"Our discussions were positive and constructive, reflecting a shared determination to translate our strong relationship into practical steps that benefit both countries," he said.

The meeting also addressed developments in Syria, with both ministers stressing the need for a comprehensive reconstruction effort that respects Syrians' rights and safety. 

Safadi also briefed Rasmussen on the outcomes of the Aqaba meetings and the Saudi-hosted discussions aimed at unifying regional efforts to rebuild Syria. 

He also highlighted Jordan’s security challenges along its border with Syria, including weapons and drug smuggling, emphasising the Kingdom’s coordination with the new Syrian administration to address these threats and its determination to take necessary measures to secure its borders.

On the refugee issue, Safadi stressed the urgent need to create conditions for the safe and voluntary return of Syrians.

Safadi also noted that 1.3 million Syrian refugees are currently residing in Jordan, with 90 per cent living outside of camps, reiterating the Kingdom’s commitment to providing dignified living conditions until their safe return is feasible.

The talks also reaffirmed Jordan's stance on the Palestinian cause, with Safadi calling for an immediate end to the violence in Gaza and the realisation of a two-state solution. 

"Jordan remains committed to sending aid despite numerous obstacles," Safadi said, adding  "If a ceasefire is achieved, we will increase our efforts to support the people of Gaza."

The top diplomat also reiterated Jordan's commitment to a sovereign Palestinian state based on the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. 

"This is the only viable way to peace," he added. 

Rasmussen commended Jordan as a cornerstone of stability in the region and reaffirmed Denmark's commitment to boosting cooperation with Jordan on key regional challenges, including the Syrian crisis and the ongoing war on Gaza. 

Ahead of Denmark's two-year term on the United Nations Security Council, Rasmussen highlighted Jordan's critical role in promoting peace and supporting humanitarian efforts. 

Denmark has contributed significantly to Jordan’s efforts to host Syrian refugees, providing $12.4 million this year to Jordan’s health fund for refugees and an additional $11 million in loans through the World Bank to support the Kingdom’s infrastructure. 

Rasmussen also commended His Majesty King Abdullah's leadership in promoting regional stability, particularly through initiatives like the Aqaba meetings, which have been instrumental in addressing developments in Syria. 

"Both countries are committed to supporting Syria’s transition towards unity, stability, and security," he added.

Rasmussen also called for an immediate and lasting ceasefire to alleviate the humanitarian crisis, reiterating Denmark’s support for a two-state solution as the only path to lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians. 

He also expressed concern over recent attempts to suspend the operations of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in Gaza, saying, "Denmark strongly opposes these decisions and is committed to ensuring that UNRWA continues its vital mission of assisting vulnerable populations, not only in Gaza but throughout the region."

AMMAN — The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources on Tuesday signed a five-year memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Saudi Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources to enhance cooperation in the field of mineral wealth.

Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources and Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Bin Ibrahim Al Khorayef signed the MoU on the sidelines of the Fourth International Ministerial Meeting of Ministers Responsible for Mining Affairs, currently taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, under the patronage of King Salman bin Abdulaziz.

The MoU aims to support the development of scientific and technical capabilities for optimising the extraction and management of mineral resources in line with both countries' regulations, according to an Energy Ministry statement. 

It also focuses on creating a Jordan-Saudi cooperation framework for mining, promoting the exchange of technical expertise and legislative knowledge, conducting research and studies and organising joint programmes and workshops. 

The agreement also highlights the importance of modern technologies in mining operations and the sustainable discovery, assessment and utilisation of mineral resources.

The agreement also focuses on training geologists, mining engineers, and environmental specialists to ensure responsible mineral extraction practices and minimise the environmental impact of mining activities.

The Fourth International Ministerial Meeting has drawn participation from over 50 ministers and influential figures in the international mining industry, providing a platform for dialogue on critical issues shaping the future of the sector. 

Discussions centred on bolstering international cooperation for the responsible utilisation of mineral resources, attracting investment to the mining sector, and driving innovation in mining technologies, the statement said.  

The conference also focused on sustainable mining practices, emphasising the need to balance environmental preservation with sustainable economic development.

Participants also explored challenges confronting the industry, including the impacts of climate change and the ongoing digital transformation in mining. 

The International Mining Conference has established itself as an essential platform for dialogue between governments, industry leaders, and investors, aiming to foster international partnerships and ensure the sustainable management of mineral resources to support global development goals.

AMMAN — Minister of Interior Mazen Faraya met on Tuesday with UN Under-Secretary-General for Safety and Security Gilles Michaud to discuss the latest regional developments and ways to enhance cooperation on humanitarian efforts.

Faraya highlighted Jordan's ongoing support for the UN's initiatives in the Kingdom and across the region, including in Syria, the West Bank, and Gaza, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra.

He also stressed the importance of providing comprehensive support to Syria, particularly in the next phase, and reiterated Jordan's commitment to assisting Syrian refugees and facilitating their safe, voluntary return to their homeland.

Faraya also reiterated Jordan’s dedication to its humanitarian role and its readiness to support the Syrian people in all sectors, including rebuilding their institutions and infrastructure. 

The minister also emphasised Jordan's unwavering solidarity with Syria and its people, supporting their choices and efforts to rebuild the country.

Faraya highlighted Jordan's role as a key partner in facilitating humanitarian aid to the West Bank and Gaza, emphasising the need to streamline aid delivery and strengthen Jordan’s position as a critical gateway for assistance to the Palestinian territories.

He also acknowledged the crucial role played by the UN in cooperating with international and regional partners to provide essential relief, medical supplies, and shelter, ensuring swift aid delivery to address the urgent needs of the people in both the West Bank and Gaza.

Michaud reiterated the UN's commitment to continuing and expanding its programmes in the region. 

He also expressed readiness to work closely with Jordan to support the Syrian people in their efforts to build a secure and stable state. Michaud also stressed the need for enhanced coordination among international partners to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and ensure the effective delivery of aid to both the West Bank and Gaza.

AMMAN — General Manager of the National Electric Power Company (NEPCO) Sufian Bataineh on Tuesday met on Tuesday with a visiting delegation from Algeria's National Electricity and Gas Company (Sonelgaz) to explore potential cooperation on enhancing electrical transmission networks between Jordan and Algeria. 

The discussions focused on exchanging expertise and improving maintenance and operational systems, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra.

Bataineh stressed the importance of fostering long-term cooperation in network maintenance, as well as exploring opportunities to strengthen both countries' capabilities in the energy sector. 

He also highlighted the role of sustained communication in leveraging technical expertise, which can drive innovation and contribute to the ongoing development of electricity transmission systems.

During the visit, the Algerian delegation toured NEPCO’s National Monitoring and Control Centre, as well as the South Amman Transformer Station. 

They were also briefed on the company’s scheduled and preventive maintenance procedures and were introduced to the mechanisms used for replacing electrical equipment, all in accordance with international quality and safety standards.

The delegation will continue their visit on Wednesday with stops at NEPCO’s Electrical Training Centre and Samra Transformer Station, to explore best practices and technological innovations in the field.