Latest news with #Jerash
Zawya
23-07-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
Jordan: Hassan underlines centrality of local governance, development to Cabinet sessions in governorates
AMMAN — Prime Minister Jafar Hassan on Wednesday reaffirmed the government's commitment to decentralisation and inclusive development during a Cabinet session held in the northern city of Jerash. Hassan described Cabinet meetings in governorates as a 'firmly established governmental approach aimed at shaping development programmes in close coordination with local administrations and elected bodies.' 'These sessions are vital to developing unified plans that address pressing challenges and priorities,' prime minister said. 'They help ensure efficient implementation and responsible public spending.' The session in Jerash was the first to include temporary municipal committees and newly established governorate councils, according to a Prime Ministry statement. The prime minister called on these bodies to put forth maximum effort in serving citizens' needs, pledging full cooperation from the government to address any shortcomings until relevant legislation is passed and elections are conducted. As part of Jordan's broader political modernisation drive, Hassan said that local governance legislation would be a key priority in the coming period, stressing that municipalities form the backbone of local development and reaffirmed the government's commitment to revitalising their role, improving their performance, and ensuring sound governance for equitable and effective service delivery. The Prime Minister cautioned against 'favoritism and unsustainable employment practices', saying that efforts to tackle unemployment must not come at the expense of municipal sustainability or fair and transparent service provision. He also described Jerash Festival, which will begin on Thursday, as one of the most distinguished to date, underscoring the iconic event's significance for Jordan's tourism and cultural sectors. 'The festival remains a leading Arab cultural event and a vital contributor to the local economy.' 'Despite regional challenges, the government remains fully committed to supporting tourism and cultural events, which are essential pillars of the national economy and identity,' Hassan said. He also highlighted several recent national occasion, including Flag Day, Independence Day, and the national football team's qualification for the World Cup, as proud moments for Jordanians. 'These are opportunities to celebrate our people, our achievements, and our enduring resilience,' he remarked. Turning to the economy, the prime minister outlined the next phase of Jordan's Economic Modernisation Vision, announcing a series of intensive workshops to be held at the Royal Hashemite Court and the Prime Ministry. 'These workshops aim to review and update strategies to better reflect global developments and unlock opportunities missed in recent years due to regional instability. The resulting three-year executive programme will act as the government's central work plan, guiding ministries with detailed, sector-specific objectives.' 'This is about building a responsive and forward-looking economic framework that expands opportunities and keeps pace with global trends. it is not just a plan for the government, it is a roadmap for the future of all Jordanians.' Hassan also reaffirmed Jordan's unwavering commitment to regional stability and solidarity, emphasising the country's vital diplomatic role amid ongoing geopolitical challenges in neighbouring Syria and Gaza. The prime minister acknowledged the scale and severity of current regional developments. 'The repercussions in our region are not easy,' he stated. 'There are profound and visible transformations taking place around us. The future of Jordan and Arab countries is intrinsically linked.' Highlighting Jordan's active role in Syria, Hassan said revealed that the Kingdom had taken key steps in recent days to support efforts toward a unified and sovereign Syrian state. 'Our aim is for Syria to rise, to be strong, stable, prosperous, and unified under its own sovereignty. Relations with the Syrian government are excellent, and there is open communication and cooperation across all sectors.' He described ongoing consultations between the two countries as 'highly positive,' noting that optimism about the future of Jordanian-Syrian relations is growing. 'Jordan is offering comprehensive support to the Syrian people through civil defence cooperation, technical expertise, humanitarian assistance, and administrative coordination.' Touching on the situation in Sweida, the prime minister said that conditions were stabilising. 'We have played a key diplomatic role in containing the crisis,' he said, underscoring Jordan's efforts to promote calm and security along its northern frontier. On the situation in Gaza, Hassan reiterated the Kingdom's support for the Palestinian people, amid what he described as an ongoing humanitarian tragedy. 'We hope the brutality and suffering in Gaza will come to an end in the coming days. Our top priority is delivering humanitarian aid and helping the Palestinian people remain steadfast on their land.' Hassan said that no issue outweighs the importance of ensuring Palestinians remain in their homeland, with the long-term objective of securing the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. 'With the support of the international community, we will continue working to secure the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people,' he said. The prime minister also praised the tireless efforts of Jordanian institutions delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza under extremely difficult circumstances. 'There has not been a single day or hour when our efforts have stopped. Despite every challenge, we are doing everything possible to ensure aid reaches those most in need.' © Copyright The Jordan Times. All rights reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
23-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Jordan, French Development Agency discuss accelerating key water projects
AMMAN — Minister of Water and Irrigation Raed Abu Soud on Thursday met with a delegation from the French Development Agency (AFD), led by its Middle East Regional Director Yves Guicquéro, to explore strategies for expediting several vital water sector initiatives. The discussions focused on advancing projects crucial to Jordan's Water Sector Strategy 2023-2040. Abu Soud highlighted the ministry's ongoing efforts to fast-track projects aimed at enhancing services for citizens, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. He pointed to the strategic National Carrier Project, alongside key developments including the Balqa wastewater treatment plant, valued at 75 million euros, and the Madaba wastewater treatment plant and networks, valued at 100 million euros. Other critical projects discussed were Al Sukhna and Qasabat Maan wastewater systems. The minister also referred to a project focused on improving and rehabilitating wells at the Faisal Nursery in Jerash, designed to bolster water supply in the Jerash Governorate. Discussions covered the latest progress on these undertakings, with the minister expressing anticipation for continued constructive cooperation. The AFD delegation provided an overview of the agency's contributions to financing these projects and their current work trajectory. They conveyed their satisfaction with the "constructive and fruitful cooperation" between their team and the Jordanian water sector staff. The AFD representatives stressed the agency's readiness to collaborate and coordinate with Jordan's water sector on all issues aimed at improving water and wastewater services throughout the Kingdom. © Copyright The Jordan Times. All rights reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Jordan Times
22-05-2025
- Business
- Jordan Times
Jordan, French Development Agency discuss accelerating key water projects
Minister of Water and Irrigation Raed Abu Soud on Thursday meets with a delegation from the French Development Agency to explore strategies for expediting several vital water sector initiatives (Petra photo) AMMAN — Minister of Water and Irrigation Raed Abu Soud on Thursday met with a delegation from the French Development Agency (AFD), led by its Middle East Regional Director Yves Guicquéro, to explore strategies for expediting several vital water sector initiatives. The discussions focused on advancing projects crucial to Jordan's Water Sector Strategy 2023-2040. Abu Soud highlighted the ministry's ongoing efforts to fast-track projects aimed at enhancing services for citizens, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. He pointed to the strategic National Carrier Project, alongside key developments including the Balqa wastewater treatment plant, valued at 75 million euros, and the Madaba wastewater treatment plant and networks, valued at 100 million euros. Other critical projects discussed were Al Sukhna and Qasabat Maan wastewater systems. The minister also referred to a project focused on improving and rehabilitating wells at the Faisal Nursery in Jerash, designed to bolster water supply in the Jerash Governorate. Discussions covered the latest progress on these undertakings, with the minister expressing anticipation for continued constructive cooperation. The AFD delegation provided an overview of the agency's contributions to financing these projects and their current work trajectory. They conveyed their satisfaction with the "constructive and fruitful cooperation" between their team and the Jordanian water sector staff. The AFD representatives stressed the agency's readiness to collaborate and coordinate with Jordan's water sector on all issues aimed at improving water and wastewater services throughout the Kingdom.
Jordan Times
17-05-2025
- Business
- Jordan Times
Jordan faces world's worst water shortage
A view of the King Talal Dam in Jerash, some 50km north of Amman (File photo) AMMAN — Jordan is grappling with one of the most severe water crises in the world, with per capita water availability dropping to just 60 cubic metres per year, one of the lowest rates internationally, according to the Minister of Water and Irrigation Raed Abul Saud. Speaking at a recent policy dialogue hosted by the Jordan Economic Forum, Abul Saud described the water crisis as a matter of national security, warning that if water availability falls below 30 cubic metres per year, the impact on sectors such as tourism, agriculture and industry would be catastrophic. 'Water is no longer just a service, it is a matter of national security,' he told forum members, stakeholders, and environmental experts during the session, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. The minister outlined two strategies that the government is pursuing to secure Jordan's water supply: the National Water Carrier Project, which involves the construction of a massive pipeline, and a nationwide effort to reduce water losses through modern technology and infrastructure upgrades. He described the National Carrier as the "cornerstone" of future water sustainability, adding that it is the largest strategic infrastructure project in Jordan's history. Once complete, it is expected to supply approximately 300 million cubic metres (mcm) of desalinated water annually from Aqaba to major population centres across the Kingdom. Abul Saud said that the project is being financed through a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model with support from international donors and financial institutions in order to avoid adding to the state's budgetary burden. Attaching importance to addressing infrastructure gaps, Abul Saud said that Jordan's ageing water infrastructure is one of the major obstacles that the Ministry of Water and Irrigation faces. Some of the pipelines have been in use for over five decades. By replacing outdated networks, installing pressure-monitoring systems and using early leak detection technology, the ministry is targeting a 2 per cent annual reduction in water losses, equivalent to around 5 mcm, he added. Water theft remains another critical challenge, Abu Saud said, noting that illegal wells and unlicensed desalination plants have been discovered across the Kingdom, with some supplying water to tourist facilities without permits. Warning that the water crisis is already beginning to affect Jordan's key economic sectors, the minister said that the tourism industry, which has high water consumption, may suffer from increased operating costs and reduced competitiveness. Meanwhile, rising water prices could increase production costs for factories and reduce the competitiveness of Jordanian exports. In the agricultural sector, shrinking water resources are leading to reduced farmland and lower yields, he added. In order to improve the efficiency of the water system, the ministry has expanded the use of SCADA control systems. The ministry has also started using artificial intelligence to manage water pressure and detect faults in the network. A successful pilot project in Amman's Khaldah district has improved water supply to residents in high-altitude areas, according to the minister. Jordan produces between 150 and 200 million cubic metres of treated wastewater each year from over 35 sewage treatment plants, and the government plans to involve the private sector in operating and managing these facilities under long-term, performance-based contracts, he added. In the Jordan Valley, the minister said that a number of farmers have started using smart irrigation systems fitted with soil moisture sensors. These systems have helped to reduce water usage by up to 50 per cent, while also improving crop quality and cutting energy costs. The session concluded with an open discussion between the minister and attendees, who called for the National Water Carrier Project to be implemented more quickly, for greater investment in water-saving technologies and for a stronger national campaign to raise awareness about water conservation. Abul Saud reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to transparency and collaboration with all stakeholders.
Jordan Times
17-05-2025
- Business
- Jordan Times
Jordan faces world's worst water shortage, says water minister
A view of the King Talal Dam in Jerash, some 50km north of Amman (File photo) AMMAN — Jordan is grappling with one of the most severe water crises in the world, with per capita water availability dropping to just 60 cubic metres per year, one of the lowest rates internationally, according to the Minister of Water and Irrigation Raed Abul Saud. Speaking at a recent policy dialogue hosted by the Jordan Economic Forum, Abul Saud described the water crisis as a matter of national security, warning that if water availability falls below 30 cubic metres per year, the impact on sectors such as tourism, agriculture and industry would be catastrophic. 'Water is no longer just a service, it is a matter of national security,' he told forum members, stakeholders, and environmental experts during the session, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. The minister outlined two strategies that the government is pursuing to secure Jordan's water supply: the National Water Carrier Project, which involves the construction of a massive pipeline, and a nationwide effort to reduce water losses through modern technology and infrastructure upgrades. He described the National Carrier as the "cornerstone" of future water sustainability, adding that it is the largest strategic infrastructure project in Jordan's history. Once complete, it is expected to supply approximately 300 million cubic metres (mcm) of desalinated water annually from Aqaba to major population centres across the Kingdom. Abul Saud said that the project is being financed through a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model with support from international donors and financial institutions in order to avoid adding to the state's budgetary burden. Attaching importance to addressing infrastructure gaps, Abul Saud said that Jordan's ageing water infrastructure is one of the major obstacles that the Ministry of Water and Irrigation faces. Some of the pipelines have been in use for over five decades. By replacing outdated networks, installing pressure-monitoring systems and using early leak detection technology, the ministry is targeting a 2 per cent annual reduction in water losses, equivalent to around 5 mcm, he added. Water theft remains another critical challenge, Abu Saud said, noting that illegal wells and unlicensed desalination plants have been discovered across the Kingdom, with some supplying water to tourist facilities without permits. Warning that the water crisis is already beginning to affect Jordan's key economic sectors, the minister said that the tourism industry, which has high water consumption, may suffer from increased operating costs and reduced competitiveness. Meanwhile, rising water prices could increase production costs for factories and reduce the competitiveness of Jordanian exports. In the agricultural sector, shrinking water resources are leading to reduced farmland and lower yields, he added. In order to improve the efficiency of the water system, the ministry has expanded the use of SCADA control systems. The ministry has also started using artificial intelligence to manage water pressure and detect faults in the network. A successful pilot project in Amman's Khaldah district has improved water supply to residents in high-altitude areas, according to the minister. Jordan produces between 150 and 200 million cubic metres of treated wastewater each year from over 35 sewage treatment plants, and the government plans to involve the private sector in operating and managing these facilities under long-term, performance-based contracts, he added. In the Jordan Valley, the minister said that a number of farmers have started using smart irrigation systems fitted with soil moisture sensors. These systems have helped to reduce water usage by up to 50 per cent, while also improving crop quality and cutting energy costs. The session concluded with an open discussion between the minister and attendees, who called for the National Water Carrier Project to be implemented more quickly, for greater investment in water-saving technologies and for a stronger national campaign to raise awareness about water conservation. Abul Saud reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to transparency and collaboration with all stakeholders.
