Opportunity for closer ties

His Majesty King Abdullah's state visit to India for talks with Indian President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi gains an added importance regarding India's pivotal role in Asia and the world in general.

Such a role does not only stem from India's geography and economic and industrial strength, but also out of its increasing political, economic, industrial and technological significance globally.

India's population has reached 1.333 billion, according to the latest census, thus constituting 17.5 per cent of the world's total population. India has also become an advanced industrial giant and a powerful tech innovator.

The republic's huge Muslim population, which now stands at 172 million, adds to its weight and significance to the Muslim world in general, and to Jordan in particular. The peaceful and harmonious relations between all of India's faiths and creeds stands out as an example for interfaith dialogue, to which Jordan is totally and unequivocally committed.

There is hardly any tension between the Muslims of India and its other major religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism. Secular by law, India has managed to offer a unique example of interfaith harmony and a model for multi-religious peaceful coexistence. Yet, Jordan's relations with India do not end there. India stands with Arab causes, and has supported the Palestinian people’s struggle for liberation and freedom.

On the economic front, there are huge prospects for more trade and commerce between the two nations. The Indian-Jordanian Business Forum held in New Delhi was organised by the Jordan Chamber of Commerce and Jordan Investment Commission, in cooperation with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

There is no doubt that the forum offered a unique opportunity for closer ties between the two countries on trade and industry prospects.

Just as Jordan can be a gateway for India's trade with the Middle East, India too can be a gateway for Jordan's trade with Asia and the Far East.

Hopefully, the momentum generated by the King's talks in New Delhi will be maintained by similar follow up meetings.