Lower House continues deliberations on gov't policy statement

AMMAN — The Lower House on Tuesday continued its deliberations to discuss the policy statement presented by Prime Minister Jafar Hassan’s government as part of its bid for a vote of confidence.

During the session, attended by the prime minister and members of his cabinet, the deputies emphasised the need for a comprehensive strategy to ensure food security, including addressing agricultural seasons and enhancing them with processing industries to reduce seasonal losses.

The MPs also stressed the importance of opening investment opportunities and expanding markets, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

They also called for stronger alliances with friendly countries to counter Israeli plans and support official and grassroots efforts.

The lawmakers also highlighted the significant challenges facing the Kingdom due to international and economic pressures, urging all stakeholders to work together to address existing gaps, unite efforts, and bolster the country’s internal resilience.

They also called for reducing university tuition fees, with the ultimate goal of achieving free higher education as a fundamental right for every Jordanian, noting that merely increasing student loans does not alleviate the financial burden of education.

MPs also urged the promotion of small and medium-sized enterprises, aligning education with labour market demands, and investing in key productive sectors such as agriculture, industry, and tourism. 

They also called for boosting the partnership between the public and the private sectors and expanding the role of universities in public service and youth leadership development.

The lawmakers also advised raising the salaries of civil and military retirees, improving services in sectors like health, water, agriculture, and tourism, and addressing the critical issues of poverty and unemployment.