Latest news with #ChenChuandong
Jordan News
5 days ago
- Business
- Jordan News
Farewell to the Chinese Ambassador and Prospects for Jordanian-Chinese Partnership - Jordan News
Before Ambassador Chen Chuandong finished his speech in the celebration hall in central Amman, his tears preceded his words, transforming the farewell stage into a humane space pulsating with intimacy. The man spent four and a half years in the Kingdom, during which he led a path of cooperation that took the form of a growing strategic partnership, and the Chinese and Arab civilizations embodied a model of understanding based on mutual respect and mutual benefit. The following article traces the most important milestones of this period, examining the significance of the farewell moment and the prospects it opens for the next decade. اضافة اعلان First: The Farewell Scene... When Emotion Speaks in Diplomatic Tones At the end of the ceremony, the ambassador's voice trembled as he recalled the names of the Jordanian places that had sheltered him, from the alleys of Jabal Luweibdeh to the balconies of Jerash, suspended in the memory of history. The scene seemed exceptional in a world where emotions are usually controlled by the rhythm of protocol. However, the man chose to express his gratitude with Eastern frankness, not devoid of the warmth of Beijing. Those tears, as one of the attendees commented, "were not shed on the airport asphalt, but on the soil of a second homeland that its owner loved until the last day of his mission." This emotional dimension does not detract from the professional nature of the outcome; it merely confirms that relations between peoples, when formulated sincerely, transcend the language of technical interests to touch the hearts of individuals. Second: Ten Years of Strategic Partnership... A Busy Achievements Calendar A full decade ago, in 2015, Amman and Beijing announced the elevation of their relations to a strategic partnership. Since then, and particularly during Ambassador Chen's tenure, three key themes have been crystallized: Economy and Trade: The volume of trade increased from $360 million in 2020 to $537 million in 2024, with an annual growth rate of nearly 21%. These figures may seem modest compared to larger markets, but they reflect a new structure in the trade basket, with fertilizers, solar panels, and textiles emerging as key components. Most importantly, Chinese companies now own the largest stake in the Arab Potash Company, increasing fertilizer production and contributing to Chinese food security, while providing revenues and job opportunities to the Jordanian treasury. Energy and Green Transformation: Chinese institutions have invested in wind farms in the Tafilah region and photovoltaic projects in several areas, helping Jordan double the contribution of renewable energy to its electricity mix. This cooperation aligns with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 to reduce emissions and ensure security of supply. Belt and Road Initiative: Signing a Memorandum of Understanding and opening the door to the establishment of logistics corridors linking Aqaba to Chinese Red Sea ports, in addition to projects to digitize ports and railways. This is how the Chinese philosophy is translated: seamless trade intersects with Jordan's ambition to become a regional hub linking Asia, Europe, and Africa. Third: Culture and Education... The Bridge That Politics Cannot Destroy The strength of relations between countries is not measured by trade balance indicators alone, but rather by the depth of cultural exchange and human interaction they reflect. The Jerash Festival has become a model for this cultural convergence, hosting Chinese troupes for successive years, presenting performances of traditional music and contemporary dance. The closing evenings of these troupes have become among the most anticipated events in the historic amphitheaters. On the other hand, the "Tea for Harmony" event has transformed from a simple initiative to bring Jordanian and Chinese cultures together in a garden at the University of Jordan, into a well-established annual event that attracts hundreds of families. Visitors learn about Chinese tea-making rituals and their ancient history, while Jordanian participants enjoy maqluba and mansaf dishes, a scene that embodies the true meaning of cultural exchange and the rich diversity between peoples. Language education: Approximately 600 Jordanian students are learning Chinese at Confucius Institutes, while 500 Chinese students are immersed in the beauty of the Arabic language at Jordanian universities. These generations are the true fuel for the sustainability of the relationship. Training programs: Last year alone, 600 Jordanians took short courses in Beijing, Shenzhen, and Suzhou, covering artificial intelligence, urban policy, and heritage management. They return with new ideas and personal friendships. Fourth: Political Harmony and Common Positions At the diplomatic level, observers can almost detect a remarkable harmony between Amman and Beijing on key issues. The Palestinian issue—which tops Jordan's foreign policy agenda—enjoys unwavering Chinese support for a two-state solution. The two countries translated this discourse by sending humanitarian aid to Gaza in late 2023, carried out by a joint airlift. Jordan, for its part, affirms at every forum its commitment to the "One China" principle as a pillar of international stability. Fifth: The Compass of Domestic Development... What Does Jordan Mean to Beijing? Chinese experts describe Jordan as a "laboratory of stability" in a turbulent region. The Kingdom, under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II, has weathered the storms of the "Arab Spring" without institutional collapse and has gradually modernized its political system. From Beijing's perspective, this promising climate of sustainability is an ideal environment for long-term investments, free from the sovereign risks threatening mega-projects in some neighboring countries. The Chinese side also benefits from Jordan's geopolitical location; the Kingdom is a transit gateway to the markets of Iraq and Syria, and linking the port of Aqaba to the Belt and Road Initiative will provide China with an alternative artery to the Suez Canal in emergencies. Sixth: Challenges and Opportunities in the Next Five Years Diversifying Partnerships: Despite China's momentum, Jordan is keen not to limit its economic options to a single entity. The balance between East and West will remain the motto of the next phase, requiring Beijing to offer more competitive offers while respecting the unique characteristics of the Jordanian market. Deepening Local Manufacturing: The current model focuses on importing Chinese components and assembling them in Jordan. Jordanian decision-makers aspire to transfer deeper technologies, enabling the establishment of real industries that attract Jordanian engineers. Soft diplomacy and deepening success narratives: Jordanian citizens see the Chinese presence as an added value to their daily lives, not just numbers in the news. Here, cultural grant programs and popular media play a pivotal role. Seventh: Chen's Tears... A Farewell Message or a Promise of a Reunion? When the ambassador was asked after his speech about the reason for his tears, he responded with a brief statement: "I loved Jordan more than I expected." Between the lines lies the understanding that international relations are not built solely on agreements signed behind closed doors; rather, they are built on simple human rhythms: a friend who becomes familiar with a street, masters a new language, says "good morning" in the Ammani dialect, and the neighbors respond with "你好" at the door. This intimacy may seem like a marginal detail on the Foreign Ministry's agenda, but it is a spirit capable of moving the wheels of the economy, culture, and politics in directions that are difficult to measure with numbers. And then: Where do Where do we go from here? As Jordan and China mark the tenth anniversary of their strategic partnership, they close a chapter enriched by Ambassador Chen Chuandong's efforts and open a new one poised to tackle shared challenges—post-pandemic recovery, energy security, and climate change. This is a moment for both nations to co-create a development model that fuses innovation with cultural diversity and adapts technology to Jordan's unique context, all while benefiting from China's openness and experience. Though Ambassador Chen is preparing to leave Amman, the legacy he leaves behind—from solar panels glinting in the desert sun to the harmonies of "Zhong Rui" echoing through the Jerash Amphitheater—will endure. It serves as lasting proof that when diplomacy is guided by empathy and vision, it writes more than agreements; it writes relationships. In a world where headlines fade fast, perhaps the most enduring mark of an ambassador is this simple line etched into the history of two nations: 'A friendship was born here.'
Ammon
5 days ago
- Business
- Ammon
China, Jordan witness steady development, Chinese Ambassador says
Ammon News - China's Ambassador to Amman, Chen Chuandong, has affirmed that relations between China and Jordan are witnessing steady development based on mutual respect and shared benefits across all fields. Speaking at a farewell reception Tuesday evening to mark the end of his diplomatic mission in the Kingdom, the ambassador praised Jordan, under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II, as an "oasis of security and stability" in the Middle East. He commended the nation for overcoming numerous challenges and for its confident and optimistic pursuit of development and modernization. He highlighted the alignment of both nations on several regional and international issues, particularly their shared support for a just, two-state solution to the Palestinian cause and their cooperation in delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. Ambassador Chen noted the significant growth in economic partnership, pointing out that bilateral trade soared to $537 million in 2024, marking a 21% year-on-year increase from $360 million in 2020. He cited major projects, including a "Belt and Road" initiative memorandum signed this year, Chinese firms becoming the largest shareholder in the Arab Potash Company boosting its output and contributing to China's food security and extensive investments in Jordan's solar and wind energy sectors, which have created numerous jobs and supported the Kingdom's green transition. Cultural and educational ties have also flourished. "Chinese troupes have participated in the Jerash Festival for consecutive years, and events like 'Tea for Harmony,' food festivals, and anime screenings have been widely embraced by our Jordanian friends," Chen said. He added that approximately 600 Jordanians are studying Chinese, while 500 Chinese students are studying Arabic in Jordan, and the embassy provided training in China for nearly 600 Jordanians last year. Marking the 10th anniversary of the strategic partnership between the two countries, the ambassador expressed his optimism for a brighter future and a broader scope for bilateral relations.
Jordan Times
25-05-2025
- Politics
- Jordan Times
Ambassadors congratulate Jordan on Independence Day
AMMAN — Ambassadors and high-ranking officials have congratulated His Majesty King Abdullah and Jordanians on the occasion of Independence Day, praising the Kingdom's commitment to promoting regional peace and stability and its leading humanitarian roles. In a statement issued by the US Department of State, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio conveyed Washington's 'warmest congratulations' to His Majesty King Abdullah and the Jordanian people. He reaffirmed the strength of the US–Jordan partnership, which is rooted in a shared vision for a peaceful, prosperous, and secure Middle East. He also applauded Jordan's "critical" role in promoting peace and security in the region over the past seven decades. Ambassadors from other major global and regional partners also praised Jordan for its consistent support of humanitarian causes and diplomatic leadership in a turbulent region, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra. Chinese Ambassador Chen Chuandong described Jordan as a 'haven of peace', crediting the Kingdom's independent and balanced foreign policy. He highlighted Jordan's early humanitarian response in Gaza and its defence of Palestinian rights, noting that China and Jordan share a broad consensus on global issues. Japanese Ambassador Hideki Asari emphasised Jordan's longstanding role as a pillar of stability. He pointed to the Kingdom's aid efforts in Gaza, its support for the two-state solution, and its continued generosity in hosting 1.3 million Syrian refugees. He also emphasised the strong strategic partnership between the two countries, which was reinforced by HRH Crown Prince Hussein's recent visit to Tokyo. EU Ambassador Pierre-Christophe Chatzisavas praised Jordan's humanitarian leadership, particularly the work of the Jordanian Hashemite Charity Organization (JHCO) and the Jordan Armed Forces- Arab Army (JAF) in delivering aid to Gaza. He confirmed that the EU is committed to supporting Jordan's political, economic and reform efforts in recognition of the Kingdom's contribution to addressing regional crises. Azerbaijani Ambassador Eldar Salimov highlighted Jordan's constructive role in global peacekeeping and refugee support, praising its commitment to moderation and dialogue. Tunisian Ambassador Moufida Zaribi applauded Jordan's active diplomacy following the aggression on Gaza, noting the Kingdom's early calls to the international community and its legal advocacy for Palestinian rights. She also praised Jordan's counter-extremism efforts and interfaith dialogue initiatives. In a video message, Qatari Ambassador Sheikh Saud bin Nasser bin Jassim Al Thani offered his congratulations, extending warm wishes to Jordan's leadership and people. He emphasised the deep-rooted ties between Qatar and Jordan, spanning over five decades of cooperation in diplomacy, trade, education and healthcare. 'We celebrate your achievements as brothers,' he said, expressing optimism for continued joint progress.
Jordan Times
22-05-2025
- Jordan Times
When wonders meet: Petra and Great Wall of China forge global alliance
The agreement marks a new chapter in cultural diplomacy, bringing together two of the world's most iconic heritage sites (Photos by Ahmed Khlifat) PETRA — The ancient city of Petra hosted a historic event on Tuesday as it welcomed a high-level Chinese delegation for the signing of a twinning agreement between Petra and Jiayuguan City, home to the Great Wall of China. The agreement marks a new chapter in cultural diplomacy, bringing together two of the world's most iconic heritage sites in a strategic partnership to promote international tourism, exchange, and cooperation. The ceremony, held in front of Petra's Treasure, was led by Fares Braizat, Chief Commissioner of the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority, Zhao Shumin, Director of the Culture and Tourism Bureau of Jiayuguan Municipality, and was attended by Chen Chuandong, Chinese Ambassador to Jordan, as well as representatives from Jordan's tourism and local development sectors. 'This is a historical moment,' Braizat said, 'We are not just connecting two landmarks – we are connecting two great cultures from the Middle East and East Asia. This partnership promotes dialogue, fosters mutual respect, and raises global awareness of the values we share.' The agreement outlines a roadmap for collaboration in tourism marketing, cultural exchange, education, investment, and joint events. It includes plans for hosting exhibitions, supporting community-based initiatives, and sharing expertise in heritage preservation, traditional industries, and crafts. Ambassador Chen highlighted the broader significance of the partnership : 'Jordan has long stood at the crossroads of civilisations. By uniting Petra and the Great Wall, we celebrate peace, prosperity, and humanity's shared legacy. We hope to see more Chinese tourists walking through the wonders of Petra.' This initiative follows a growing trend by the Petra authority to build global cultural bridges : similar twinning agreements have already been signed with the Colosseum in Rome and the Alhambra in Grenada, all aimed at reinforcing Petra's position as a global tourism hub. Petra, a masterpiece of Nabatean architecture carved into rose-red rock more than 2,000 years ago, remains a symbol of resilience, trade, and intercultural exchange. Likewise, the Great Wall, an architectural marvel and strategic fortress at the edge of China's ancient Silk Road – stands as a testament to China's imperial ingenuity and historic connectivity with the West. 'This agreement will enhance the Great Wall's standing on the global tourism map while creating exciting new opportunities for Petra in the Chinese market,' Zhao Shumin said. 'It opens the door to long-term cooperation rooted in cultural appreciation and mutual respect.' As two marvels of ancient civilization join hands in a modern pact, the Petra-Jiayuguan partnership sets a new precedent for how heritage sites can collaborate across borders – not just to attract visitors, but to inspire cultural understanding in a deeply interconnected world.
Zawya
22-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Jordan: Aqaba Chamber of Commerce, Chinese envoy talk economic cooperation
AMMAN — Chinese Ambassador to Jordan Chen Chuandong and members of the Aqaba Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday discussed ways to enhance cooperation and the "key" challenges facing importers from China via Aqaba. The discussions addressed facilitating procedures for issuing entry visas to China for Jordanian traders, through the economic and commercial department at the Chinese embassy, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. During the meeting, held at the chamber in Aqaba, traders stressed the importance of their participation in exhibitions held in China. The chamber called for reviving the "permanent" exhibition of Chinese products in Jordan, which serves the trade sector and contributes to enhancing the Kingdom's position as "regional trade hub" for the region's countries. The envoy said that the embassy will publish details of the new facilitations approved by the Chinese government for issuing visit visas for traders and business owners on its official website. The diplomat noted that the embassy's economic and commercial department will cooperate with the chamber to facilitate visa procedures by accrediting its letters of recommendation for its members to travel to China to follow up their business. Chuandong said that the Chinese government, in coordination with its shipping and maritime companies, will seek to reduce shipping prices "as much as possible" to cover operational costs and remove any obstacles impeding movement of freight to and from China. He expressed his country's welcome to import more Jordanian products, noting that Beijing also seeks to boost the volume of Chinese investments in the Kingdom, viewing Jordan as a "strategic" gateway to Arab markets. © Copyright The Jordan Times. All rights reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
