Amman: Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply Ya'rub Qudah emphasized the potential for Jordan and Syria to establish a strategic economic partnership that addresses challenges and promotes sustainable development. Speaking at the Jordanian-Syrian Economic Forum, organized by the Amman Chamber of Commerce, Qudah highlighted the deep-rooted relations between the two nations, guided by Royal directives aimed at supporting Syria's stability and prosperity.
According to Jordan News Agency, Qudah spoke about the importance of economic cooperation with Syria, stressing that it is a strategic endeavor extending beyond trade to include joint investments and integrated projects. He mentioned the necessity of public and private sector collaboration to convert political relations into concrete projects. Jordan's efforts to develop an integrated logistics system, including development zones and a cargo airport in Mafraq, were also discussed as potential support for regional trade and Syria's reconstruction.
Qudah further elaborated on Jordan's preferential trade advantages through free trade agreements with the EU, the United States, and Canada, which provide significant export opportunities for investors. He also mentioned ongoing discussions with Syria to review and potentially revise banned import lists based on reciprocity, with completion expected by March following technical procedures.
Syrian Minister of Economy and Industry Nidal Shaar highlighted the trust and shared interests underpinning Syria's relations with Jordan. Despite limited resources, Shaar noted Syria's gradual recovery and government efforts to bolster small and medium-sized enterprises, rehabilitate infrastructure, and enhance the investment environment. He expressed Syria's desire for regional partnerships, particularly with Jordan, and highlighted the increasing demand in the Syrian market as millions return to economic activity. Shaar called on Jordanian institutions and companies to participate in investment, reconstruction, and economic reintegration.
Senator Khalil Al-Haj Tawfiq, Chair of the Amman and Jordan Chambers of Commerce, remarked on the significance of the twinning agreement between the Amman and Damascus Chambers of Commerce, which he described as a pivotal moment in bilateral economic relations. This agreement, he noted, sets the stage for a genuine private-sector partnership.
The forum facilitated meetings between Jordanian and Syrian businesspeople across various sectors. According to Department of Statistics figures, trade between Jordan and Syria surged by 185% during the first 11 months of last year, reaching approximately JD308 million, compared to JD108 million during the same period the previous year.