Cabinet approves virtual assets bylaw, medical licensing law

AMMAN — Minister of Government Communications  Mohammad Momani on Tuesday announced key decisions made by the Cabinet during its session in Madaba Governorate.

During a press conference following the session chaired by Prime Minister Jafar Hassan, Momani said that the Cabinet approved the Virtual Assets Regulatory Bylaw for 2025, paving the way for its submission to the Lower House for legislative procedures in accordance with constitutional protocols.

The bylaw follows the Cabinet’s recent directive to establish a regulatory framework for virtual asset transactions and aligns with the objectives of the National Council for Future Technology, formed under Royal directives. It aims to keep pace with international technological and economic transformations, ensuring a clear legal framework for virtual assets, which have become an integral part of the international financial system.

The proposed bylaw seeks to balance technological innovation with financial stability by implementing regulatory measures that promote transparency and compliance with international standards. It also aims to create a secure and sustainable digital financial environment, safeguarding the national economy from potential risks while fostering growth and innovation in the sector.

The Cabinet also approved the validating reasons for the insurance bylaw for 2025, which will now be sent to the Legislation and Opinion Bureau for further legal processing. The law seeks to establish a comprehensive legal framework for insurance contracts, addressing gaps in existing civil law and providing a unified legal reference for judicial interpretations.

The Cabinet, in line with the Economic Modernisation Vision, also approved the establishment of a 600-megawatt combined-cycle power plant to be executed by the National Electric Power Company as a private generation initiative, following previous successful models.

The project will be implemented in two phases, with the first phase expected to commence by the end of 2027 and the second in 2028. Located in northern Jordan, the plant will primarily use natural gas, with diesel as a backup fuel. Once operational, it is expected to supply 10 per cent of Jordan’s electricity needs while attracting private sector investment in infrastructure projects.

The Council of Ministers also endorsed the Licensing Bylaw for Medical Clinics and Centres for 2025, setting regulatory standards for medical facilities and defining the conditions required for licensing. The bylaw ensures high-quality healthcare services and mandates registration on the National Electronic Billing System to enhance financial transparency.

The Cabinet also announced a major healthcare project, the construction of a state-of-the-art government hospital in Madaba, with an allocated budget of JD 80 million over four years.

Momani also announced the launch of a new Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) route connecting Madaba to Amman. The service will operate eight buses daily, making 52 trips per day, with a government subsidy of JD500,000. The route will follow the airport service road and integrate with Amman’s BRT network, significantly reducing travel time and improving connectivity.

Momani also condemned Israel’s renewed aggression on Gaza, resulting in hundreds of casualties. He described the attack as a violation of human rights and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities.

He reiterated Jordan’s firm stance in support of the Palestinian people, emphasising their right to security, stability, and the establishment of an independent state on the pre-1967 borders, in accordance with international resolutions.

Momani also highlighted His Majesty King Abdullah’s ongoing diplomatic efforts, as the King continues his European tour, urging the international community to take decisive action to end the violence and push for a political solution that guarantees Palestinian rights.