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MoU signed to support Jordan's underprivileged cancer patients

By - Mar 25,2025 - Last updated at Mar 25,2025

The King Hussein Cancer Foundation and BioEnergyTech sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to launch a year-long campaign to support underprivileged cancer patients (Petra photo)

AMMAN — The King Hussein Cancer Foundation (KHCF) and BioEnergyTech, Jordan's leading provider of high-quality nutritional supplements, on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to launch a year-long campaign to support underprivileged cancer patients.

Under the memo, the company will donate a share of its product sales to the foundation's budget, aimed at supporting cancer patients and promoting the KHCF's mission of cancer-based care and prevention.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, KHCF Director-General Nisreen Qatamesh said that the initiative represents an "important" step to provide healthcare to underprivileged patients and reflects BioEnergyTech's spirit of social responsibility.

BioEnergyTech General Manager Sami Kamal affirmed the "firm" stance in supporting the KHCF's mission, which reflects a "sincere" sense of supporting cancer cases.

Kamal said the company believes in the importance of collective action to make a "tangible" difference in the lives of individuals and families affected by the cancer challenge.

"The fight against this disease is at the forefront of societal issues that deserve all support," he said.

 

Cassation Court upholds over 3-year sentence for drug dealer

By - Mar 25,2025 - Last updated at Mar 25,2025

AMMAN — The Court of Cassation has upheld a September 2023 State Security Court (SSC) ruling, sentencing a drug dealer to over three years in prison after convicting him of possessing illegal narcotics in Zarqa.

The court declared the defendant guilty of obtaining illegal narcotics with the intent of selling the drugs to an undercover officer on two different occasions in May 2022 and January 2023.

The SSC handed the defendant five years in prison for the offence of possessing illegal narcotics and ordered him to pay JD5,000 in fines.

However, the court decided to reduce the fine to JD3,500 and the prison term to three years and four months in prison to give the defendant a second chance in life.

Court documents said the Anti-Narcotics Department (AND) learnt the defendant was in possession of illegal narcotics and sent one of its agents to pose as a buyer.

“The AND agent got in touch with the defendant and asked him for four Captagon pills in return for JD8,” court documents said.

When the two met, the AND agent and the defendant completed the exchange and the latter left, court papers added.

The defendant remained under surveillance by law enforcement officers and was contacted again in January to deliver a small stash of Hashish in return for JD10, court transcripts added.

When the undercover officer and the defendant met, the court maintained, he was immediately arrested.

Upon searching his vehicle, the court added, AND officers found 31 Captagon pills.

The defendant contested the SSC’s ruling through his lawyer, who argued that the court “did not provide solid evidence to implicate his client”.

The lawyer argued that “the law-enforcement agencies committed several violations when arresting and interrogating my client”.

Meanwhile, the SSC prosecution office asked the higher court to uphold the sentence and the fine imposed on the defendant.

The higher court maintained that the SSC had followed the proper procedures in issuing the sentence against the defendant.

“It was clear to the court that the defendant confessed willingly to possessing the illegal drugs to sell in the local market,” the higher court said.

The Court of Cassation judges were Yassin Abdullat, Nayef Samarat, Mohammad Khashashneh, Qassem Dughmi and Hammad Ghzawi.

 

Jordan condemns Israeli attacks against Syria's Daraa

By - Mar 25,2025 - Last updated at Mar 25,2025

AMMAN — The Foreign Ministry on Tuesday condemned the Israeli strikes against Syria's Daraa province as a "blatant violation of the international law and of Syria's sovereignty."

Authorities in southern Syria reported that Israeli bombardment on Tuesday killed at least five people in Daraa province.

In a statement on Tuesday, the ministry described the Israeli attacks as "dangerous escalation" and warned they would increase tension in the region, reiterating the Kingdom’s support for Syria, its security, stability, and sovereignty.

Ministry's spokesperson Sufian Qudah reaffirmed the Kingdom's "rejection and condemnation of the ongoing Israeli attacks on Syria, which constitute a clear violation of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement between Israel and Syria.

 

Interior Ministry introduces 'streamlined' entry measures to boost tourism, investment

By - Mar 25,2025 - Last updated at Mar 25,2025

Interior Ministry Spokesperson Tareq Majali says that the new regulations simplify entry procedures for non-Jordanians and position the Kingdom as a more accessible destination for tourists and investors worldwide (File photo)

AMMAN — The Ministry of Interior has introduced a series of streamlined entry measures aimed at boosting tourism and investment in Jordan as part of the Kingdom's Economic Modernisation Vision, Ministry Spokesperson Tareq Majali said on Tuesday.

Majali said that the new regulations simplify entry procedures for non-Jordanians and position the Kingdom as a more accessible destination for tourists and investors worldwide, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra.

Under the updated regulations, Arab and non-Arab nationals residing in GCC countries, the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea and all European countries can now enter Jordan without prior approval, provided they hold a valid residency permit in these countries for at least four months, he said.

The revised regulations also extend to Syrian nationals residing in Europe, with eligibility now extending to all European nations, rather than just European Union member states, the spokesperson said.

He noted that Jordan has waived pre-approval requirements for nationals of South Sudan and Libya to facilitate medical tourism and capitalise on the Kingdom's strong reputation for healthcare.

Majali added that for travellers from countries that still require prior approval, authorities will now assess their applications based on the same criteria applied to nationals of the countries in which they reside, provided they hold a valid residence permit for at least four months.

He added that persons holding Schengen or US visas will be allowed to enter Jordan regardless of whether they have previously used these visas, pointing out that eligible travellers will also be granted a five-year multiple-entry visa with a maximum stay of three months per visit, issued directly at border crossings without the need for prior security clearance.

The ministry has also introduced measures to facilitate visits by Jordanian expatriates and their families, where domestic workers accompanying Jordanian sponsors residing in GCC countries, as well as those travelling with Gulf nationals, are now eligible for a temporary three-month residence permit upon arrival.

Majali called for travellers to use the ministry's online services at www.moi.gov.jo to facilitate entry procedures, stressing that these measures reflect Jordan's commitment to boosting its position as a leading tourism and investment destination in the region.

Industry experts have lauded the decision, emphasizing its potential to boost tourism revenues, attract investment, and enhance Jordan’s global appeal. Anas Hourani, a tourism consultant and hospitality investor, called the initiative a “significant leap forward for the sector,” pointing out that simplifying entry requirements will likely increase tourist arrivals, improve hotel occupancy rates, and foster long-term investment.

Industry experts commended the decision, emphasising its potential to boost tourism revenues, attract investment, and enhance Jordan’s global appeal. 

Anas Hourani, a tourism consultant and hospitality investor, called the initiative a “significant leap forward for the sector,” pointing out that simplifying entry requirements will likely increase tourist arrivals, improve hotel occupancy rates, and foster long-term investment.

Sanaa Ali, a pharmacist and owner of a medical center, highlighted the positive impact on medical tourism, noting that Jordan's well-established healthcare sector will draw more patients. She added that these changes will strengthen Jordan’s position in the competitive regional medical tourism market.

Amman Youth Centre launches 'Green Circle' initiative

By - Mar 25,2025 - Last updated at Mar 25,2025

The "Sawn" programme aims to equip youth with the skills necessary to drive climate action at the local and international levels (Petra photo)

AMMAN — The Amman Youth Centre has unveiled the "Green Circle" initiative as part of the "Sawn" climate action programme under Generations For Peace, supported and funded by UNICEF. 

The initiative, hosted at the centre and overseen by the Amman Youth Directorate, engaged 45 young men and women, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

The centre said that the "Sawn" programme aims to equip youth with the skills necessary to drive climate action at the local and international levels. 

It focuses on sustainable agriculture, tackling environmental challenges, and organic waste management through composting, all in line with circular economy principles.

The initiative was the result of a series of training workshops designed to provide young leaders with facilitation and advocacy skills to promote climate action. 

These workshops allowed participants to assess the environmental needs of their communities and devise sustainable solutions to climate-related issues.

JTB promotes Jordan's educational tourism, Arabic learning in UK workshops

By - Mar 25,2025 - Last updated at Mar 25,2025

The workshops highlight how students can benefit from an advanced educational environment while exploring Jordan’s historical and cultural sites (Petra photo)

AMMAN — The Jordan Tourism Board (JTB), in collaboration with the Jordanian embassy in London, has organised a series of workshops in London and Cambridge to promote Jordan as a leading destination for educational tourism and Arabic language learning.

JTB Director General Abdul Razzak Arabiyat noted that the initiative is part of the board's strategy to position Jordan as a top destination for students interested in learning Arabic and immersing themselves in its rich cultural heritage, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

He highlighted that the Kingdom offers a unique environment for international students, combining high-quality education with cultural experiences.

"The workshops aimed to showcase academic programmes offered by Jordanian universities, along with the cultural and tourism opportunities that enhance the educational experience for students," Arabiyat said. 

He added that the JTB continues to foster partnerships with UK academic institutions to attract international students.

The events received "positive" feedback from university representatives, indicating "strong" interest in Jordan’s academic offerings. 

The workshops highlighted how students can benefit from an advanced educational environment while exploring Jordan’s historical and cultural sites.

Jordanian Ambassador to the UK Manar Dabbas stressed that the Kingdom views international students as part of its community. 

He encouraged attendees to visit Jordan for a unique educational experience, highlighting the Kingdom's role as a hub of knowledge and cultural heritage.

"Jordan's historical sites, such as Mount Nebo, the Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Petra and Jerash provide a unique backdrop for students to explore the intersection of education, history and culture," Dabbas added.

A second Ramadan event was held at Wimbledon Stadium, where the JTB distributed brochures promoting Jordan as an educational and cultural destination. 

This event aimed to enhance Jordan’s presence in the UK market and attract students to experience the Kingdom's academic and cultural offerings.

Jordan to organise first international marathon for people with disabilities

By - Mar 25,2025 - Last updated at Mar 25,2025

The event is expected to raise the profile of disability sports in Jordan, helping to position the Kingdom as a regional and international leader in inclusive sports (File photo)

AMMAN — The Jordan Marathon Association (Run Jordan) and the Jordan Paralympic Committee have formed a strategic partnership to promote the involvement of people with disabilities in sports activities.

In a major step forward for disabled sports in Jordan, CEO of Run Jordan Lina Kurd met with Chairman of the Jordan Paralympic Committee Omar Hindawi to discuss a collaborative effort aimed at increasing participation of people with disabilities in athletic events.

The meeting resulted in an agreement to organise the first-ever international marathon dedicated to people with disabilities in Aqaba, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.  

The event, which will attract participants from across the Kingdom, will be overseen by a joint committee responsible for its planning and execution, ensuring that both athletic and community goals are met.

Hindawi stressed the significance of this partnership, referring to Run Jordan’s role in pioneering opportunities for people with disabilities in the sports sector.

Kurd expressed the association's excitement for the initiative, committing to provide all necessary resources to ensure the marathon’s success.

This event is expected to raise the profile of disability sports in Jordan, helping to position the Kingdom as a regional and international leader in inclusive sports and boosting efforts to integrate people with disabilities into the global sports community.

King, Spain PM discuss dangerous developments in Gaza

By - Mar 25,2025 - Last updated at Mar 25,2025

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah, during a phone call with President of the Spanish Government Pedro Sánchez on Tuesday, stressed the need to step up international efforts to put an immediate stop to Israel’s attacks on Gaza.

His Majesty emphasised that the international community needs to put pressure on Israel to commit to re-establishing the ceasefire and implementing all the agreed upon phases, and resuming the flow of humanitarian aid, according to a Royal Court statement. 

The King warned that the continuation of the war is endangering the lives of innocent civilians, exacerbating the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, and could lead to further escalation across the region, the statement said. 

His Majesty reiterated Jordan’s rejection of any attempts to displace Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, stressing that there will be no peace or stability in the region without a just solution to the Palestinian cause, on the basis of the two-state solution.

King departs for UAE

By - Mar 25,2025 - Last updated at Mar 25,2025

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Tuesday departed on a visit to the United Arab Emirates, according to a Royal Court statement. 

HRH Crown Prince Hussein was sworn in as Regent, in the presence of Cabinet members.

Jordan condemns Israeli attacks against Syria's Daraa

By - Mar 25,2025 - Last updated at Mar 25,2025

AMMAN — The Foreign Ministry on Tuesday condemned the Israeli strikes against Syria's Daraa province as a "blatant violation of the international law and of Syria's sovereignty."

Authorities in southern Syria reported that Israeli bombardment on Tuesday killed at least five people in Daraa province.

In a statement on Tuesday, the ministry described the Israeli attacks as "dangerous escalation" and warned they would increase tension in the region, reiterating the Kingdom’s support for Syria, its security, stability, and sovereignty.

Ministry's spokesperson Sufian Qudah reaffirmed the Kingdom's "rejection and condemnation of the ongoing Israeli attacks on Syria, which constitute a clear violation of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement between Israel and Syria.

 

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