PM encourages China’s ‘cooperation’ to build regional railway

AMMAN — Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour on Thursday urged China to cooperate with regional partners in the construction of the planned cross-border railway, along with other projects on the drawing board in vital sectors. 

During a meeting with a delegation representing the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, Ensour said that China’s interest in the railway project on the ancient “Silk Road”, which connected China and the Levant, would enhance political and trade ties between Beijing and the region. 

The premier highlighted available opportunities for cooperation and investment in the Kingdom in other fields as well, such as renewable energy and higher education, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

He noted that Jordanian-Chinese ties had developed significantly during the recent years in terms of strategic cooperation. 

He cited a recent visit paid by a Jordanian delegation from the planning and trade ministries to China. 

Ensour also outlined Jordan’s reform plan and achievements made in this regard. 

He also reviewed with the visiting delegates regional issues, commending China’s support for the Palestinian and Arab causes. 

Also on Thursday, Lower House Speaker Atef Tarawneh met with the delegation and highlighted challenges facing the Kingdom as a result of regional instability and the influx of Syrian refugees. 

Talks also covered bilateral ties and prospects for further cooperation, Petra reported. 

Tarawneh noted that the trade volume between the two countries is in favour of China, according to Petra.