Amman: Minister of Planning and International Cooperation Zeina Touqan signed a £31 million grant agreement with the Government of the Netherlands to finance the Aqaba-Amman National Water Carrier Project, aimed at enhancing Jordan’s long-term water security.
According to Jordan News Agency, the agreement was signed by Dutch Ambassador to Jordan, Harry Verweij, representing the CEO of Invest International, a Dutch state-owned development financier. The signing was witnessed by Minister of Water and Irrigation Raed Abu Saud and Suad Farsi, the European Investment Bank (EIB) Representative in Jordan. The EIB will manage the grant under the Water Sector Fund.
Ambassador Verweij underscored the importance of diversifying Jordan’s water sources through desalination, emphasizing the Netherlands’ role as a leader in water management and technology. He noted the project’s potential to secure future water supplies and support economic growth in Jordan, particularly for vulnerable communities.
EIB Vice President Gelsomina Vigliotti stated that the Dutch contribution highlights a mutual commitment to water resilience. She emphasized the Water Sector Fund’s critical role in financing essential projects and enhancing access to sustainable water resources in Jordan.
Petra Vernooij, Director of Public Sector at Invest International, stressed the importance of collaboration in strengthening Jordan’s water security. She cited the project as a response to water challenges exacerbated by regional conflicts and climate change, reflecting a commitment to global challenges through innovation and cooperation.
Minister Raed Abu Saud noted the project’s alignment with royal directives and strategic plans, aiming to desalinate 300 million cubic meters of water. This initiative seeks to address the national water deficit and alleviate pressure on natural water resources, benefiting around 4 million citizens.
Touqan expressed gratitude towards the Dutch government and Invest International for their support through the European Green Economy Team initiative, highlighting its significance in securing sustainable water sources and bolstering national economic growth.
The project involves desalinating Red Sea water from the Gulf of Aqaba to supply drinking water to Amman and Aqaba, as well as other governorates along the pipeline, including Ma’an, Tafilah, Karak, and Madaba.