Amman: His Majesty King Abdullah II and India Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the opening session of the India-Jordan Business Forum in Amman on Tuesday. The forum aimed at strengthening economic partnerships, expanding cooperation prospects, and opening new markets between the two countries, was attended by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II.
According to Jordan News Agency, the event was organized by the Jordan Chamber of Commerce, with participation from representatives of over 20 leading Indian companies, as well as national companies operating in vital sectors. In his opening remarks, King Abdullah II emphasized Jordan's readiness to expand economic and investment cooperation with India across various sectors and increase trade exchange.
The King commended India's growth in economic fields and expressed hope that the forum would advance the economic partnership between the countries towards shared priorities. He also highlighted Jordan's competitive advantages in sectors like food, fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, textiles, ICT, energy, mining, tourism, advanced industries, and logistical services.
King Abdullah II underscored the importance of Jordan's strategic geographical location and logistics capabilities, suggesting the establishment of integrated logistics and manufacturing hubs. He noted that integrating Jordan's transport network with the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) could enhance cooperation.
Prime Minister Modi expressed interest in developing economic cooperation with Jordan, particularly in digital infrastructure, communications, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and agriculture. He recognized Jordan as a bridge connecting many countries and emphasized leveraging this advantage for trade cooperation. Modi also mentioned the historical trade routes through Petra between India and Europe, advocating for their restoration to foster future trade growth.
The forum concluded with the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Jordan Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry. This agreement aims to strengthen relations and economic cooperation, facilitate trade, encourage investment, coordinate between sectors, and exchange knowledge and expertise.
Director of the Office of His Majesty Alaa Batayneh, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply Yarub Qudah, India's Ambassador to Jordan Manish Chauhan, and representatives from chambers of commerce and the private sector in both countries were present at the forum's opening session.