British minister affirms UK’s support for Kingdom’s development, virus fight in phone call with Rabadi

AMMAN — Minister of Planning and International Cooperation Wissam Rabadi on Saturday discussed the repercussions of the COVID-19 crisis and aspects of cooperation with the UK under the current circumstances over the phone with British Minister of State for Middle East and North Africa Affairs James Cleverly.

Rabadi reviewed Jordan’s efforts to confront the virus and the measures the Kingdom has taken against it, especially regarding health, the economy and social aspects, according to a Planning Ministry statement.

The two sides also discussed the economic and developmental cooperation between the two countries, as well as mechanisms of enhancing and building on them in all fields.

Rabadi stressed the importance of the “distinguished, historical” Jordanian-British relations and their reflection on efforts to achieve comprehensive development in Jordan through technical and economic assistance programmes and supporting small- and medium-sized enterprises.

For his part, the British minister asserted that the UK will continue to provide support for sustainable development efforts and economic reform in Jordan, as well as help in further bolstering the Jordanian government’s efforts in the fight against COVID-19.

Cleverly also acknowledged the “magnitude of challenges” facing Jordan, especially those resulting from the Kingdom hosting large numbers of Syrian refugees, the statement added.