King updated on measures to address obstacles facing investors

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday met with members from the government’s economic team and other officials to discuss procedures the government is implementing to stimulate the business sector.

The meeting, which took place at Al Husseiniya Palace, also tackled government endeavours to remove obstacles facing the investment environment, especially those related to taxes and doing business, in a way that helps attract investments and benefits the national economy, according to a Royal Court statement.

At the meeting, which was attended by Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour, the King stressed the importance of ensuring  flexible communication and easier procedures at public institutions concerned with attracting investments, which play a major role in reducing unemployment and providing jobs.

His Majesty listened to a presentation from Ensour and team members on the procedures the government has recently adopted and others that it will apply soon, with officials highlighting the positive effects of such tools in improving the investment environment in the short and medium terms.

Heeding the King’s directives, Ensour and senior officials have been vocal over the past weeks in criticising red tape in civil service, expressing determination to address “the mentality of public servants” in dealing with citizens and investors.

His Majesty expressed his appreciation for the efforts the government has exerted so far to enhance the investment climate, and for the steps it plans to take in the near future towards that end, the statement added.

The Monarch directed Ensour, relevant officials and team members – including Finance Minister Umayya Toukan, Industry and Trade Minister Maha Ali, Amman Mayor Aqel Biltaji and Investment Commission President Muntaser Oqlah – to take all necessary procedures to stimulate the Kingdom’s investment and business sector and develop it.

HRH Prince Feisal, Royal Court Chief Fayez Tarawneh and King’s Office Director Jafar Hassan also attended the meeting.