Amman:Senate President Faisal Fayez has called for expanded trade, investment, and tourism cooperation between Jordan and Russia. He emphasized the potential for Russian involvement in development projects at the Baptism Site in anticipation of the 2,000th anniversary of Jesus Christ's baptism in 2030.
According to Jordan News Agency, Fayez's remarks were made during the opening of the first World Public Summit, The Arab World in Amman, which he is patronizing. He encouraged both nations to seek new collaboration opportunities and promote private-sector investment.
The summit, organized by the Arab Peace Group in collaboration with the Jordan Tourism Board and Russia's World Peoples Assembly, aims to develop joint projects in culture, education, science, and public diplomacy, thereby strengthening economic ties between the two countries. Fayez highlighted the historical relationship between Jordan and Russia, dating back to 1963, and its growth under King Abdullah II, rooted in mutual respect and shared interests.
Fayez also emphasized the coordination on regional and international issues and recognized Russia's support for King Abdullah II's efforts towards a two-state solution to the Palestinian question and regional stability. He noted Russia's backing of the Hashemite Custodianship of holy sites in Jerusalem and its stance against Israeli settlement activities.
Citing tourism as a promising area for cooperation, Fayez pointed to the potential for exchanging expertise and developing tourism programs, leveraging Jordan's historical sites and Russia's cultural heritage. He welcomed the mutual visa-exemption decision to boost tourism and encouraged Russian tourist arrivals, particularly for the 2030 commemoration.
Arab Peace Group Chairman Ali Mohammad underscored the importance of people-to-people diplomacy in overcoming challenges and achieving peace. He highlighted the Arab world's cultural heritage as a resource for addressing current challenges.
World Peoples Assembly Secretary-General Andrey Belyaninov noted the strong Arab participation in a recent global summit and urged further cooperation in education and culture. Arab League Assistant Secretary-General Fayed Mustafa stressed the protection of Arab heritage and called for preserving cultural diversity and historical sites.
The summit gathered diverse representatives from international organizations, academia, and various sectors, focusing on translating dialogue into joint projects with respect for cultural diversity.