PM, Iraqi industry minister talk cooperation, joint projects

AMMAN — Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Bisher Al Khasawneh on Wednesday met with Iraqi Minister of Industry and Minerals Manhal Al Khabbaz and highlighted the “historical and brotherly ties” between Jordan and Iraq, and stressed keenness on enhancing cooperation and integration in all fields to serve the interests of the two countries and peoples.

Khasawneh said that Jordan is eager to implement joint strategic projects and embark on steps for their execution on the ground, including the joint economic estate project scheduled to be established on the border and the oil pipeline from Basra to Aqaba and then to Egypt, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

The prime minister renewed Jordan’s support, under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah, to instill security and stability in Iraq to continue its effective role at the Arab, regional and international levels. 

He also listened to a briefing by Khabbaz and Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply Yousef Shamali on the agreement that was reached earlier in the day on procedural steps to implement the project of the joint economic estate, following the completion of all approvals and land ownerships of the area.

Khabbaz stressed the strategic partnership between the countries, noting that the establishment of the joint estate has benefits that will reflect on the two countries and peoples at the economic and social levels.