Amman: Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply, Yarub Qudah, met Thursday with an Uzbek delegation led by Deputy Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade, Shokhrukh Gulamov, to discuss the executive plan for enhancing bilateral economic cooperation and building on the strong ties between the two countries.
According to Jordan News Agency, Qudah and Gulamov emphasized the need to accelerate procedures for signing a preferential trade agreement and to prepare for the first meeting of the joint committee to explore areas of cooperation and designate focal points for ongoing follow-up. Qudah highlighted that His Majesty King Abdullah II’s recent visit to Uzbekistan marked a significant turning point in bilateral relations, showcasing a firm commitment to advancing economic and trade cooperation.
He pointed out that both countries possess untapped potential in sectors such as garments, fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, food products, and jewelry, and underscored the importance of joint efforts to translate cooperation frameworks into tangible outcomes. The importance of fast-tracking technical procedures for signing the trade preferences agreement was also emphasized, with both sides agreeing to finalize negotiations and sign the deal during the first joint committee session, expected before the year’s end. A Jordan-Uzbekistan business forum will also be held on the sidelines.
During the meeting, Qudah highlighted Jordan’s strategic advantages as a central hub in the region and a gateway to markets in Iraq and Syria, particularly in reconstruction efforts. He also pointed to Jordan’s extensive network of bilateral and multilateral free trade agreements, including those with the United States and the European Union, as well as the simplified rules of origin agreement for exports to European markets.
Qudah suggested a visit to the Mafraq Development Zone and dry port, which serves as a regional and strategic trade corridor linking Jordan with neighboring countries, as well as a logistics hub for Syria’s reconstruction. He also noted opportunities for partnerships in the phosphate and potash sectors, particularly in agricultural fertilizers, in addition to other fields of economic cooperation.
Gulamov, on his part, stated that during last month’s royal visit, the foreign ministries of both countries drew up a joint roadmap reflecting political will at the highest levels. His current visit aims to strengthen economic and trade ties. He affirmed Uzbekistan’s serious interest in developing partnerships in garments, fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, and food products, and noted plans to establish warehouses in Jordan for Uzbek goods with government-supported logistical incentives to ease access to regional markets. He also highlighted cooperation opportunities with the Port of Aqaba as a key hub for facilitating trade with the region.