Prime Minister chairs Cabinet meeting in Irbid, unveils ‘strategic’ plan to accelerate development in northern city

AMMAN — Prime Minister Jafar Hassan on Tuesday outlined a strategic plan to accelerate the development of the northern city of Irbid, prioritising the completion of delayed projects and stimulating growth in the industrial, agricultural and tourism sectors.

Chairing a Cabinet meeting in Irbid with local council representatives and community leaders, Hassan underlined the government's commitment to encouraging investment in the northern region to create job opportunities and drive sustainable economic progress, according to a Prime Ministry statement.

"Our presence here reaffirms our commitment to connect with communities across the Kingdom and respond directly to their needs. Successful economic modernisation requires targeted development across all governorates, strengthening productive sectors and supporting citizens in both urban and rural areas", he said.

The Cabinet meeting in Irbid was the second after a similar one in the southern governorate of Karak. The government plans a series of similar meetings across the Kingdom.

Hassan began his tour to Irbid by inspecting the progress of the new Princess Basma Hospital, a key healthcare project in Jordan’s second largest governorate, with trial operations planned for early 2025 and full services expected by the end of next year.

Agriculture, a key sector for Jordan's food security, was also highlighted in the Prime Minister's development plan for Irbid. He highlighted Irbid's competitive advantages and the promising future of the food industry.

Hassan announced upcoming field visits with the Minister of Agriculture to assess the needs of the sector and explore ways to support its growth.

One major project on the horizon is the establishment of a new central market in Irbid, the Prime Minister said.” The project is a promising investment venture between the government and the municipality.”

Reflecting on recent visits to other governorates, Hassan noted that the government has implemented initiatives based on feedback from citizens and local stakeholders, stressing that he is “personally monitoring the progress of these initiatives and is committed to continuing monthly cabinet meetings in various governorates.”

This approach, he explained, is aimed at developing a long-term vision in cooperation with elected councils and local organisations, based on available resources.

He reiterated the government's commitment to review local administration-related laws in the coming year to support the role of elected councils.

Expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people, Hassan expressed pride in the Kingdom's support for the Palestinians and emphasized Jordan's ongoing efforts to stop the aggression and help them meet their legitimate rights in their homeland.

Jordan's stability and the welfare of Jordanians remain the Kingdom's top priorities, he said, stressing that a strong, united Jordan is essential to advancing its interests and supporting both the Palestinian and Arab communities.

Earlier the day, Hassan, accompanied by the Ministers of Health and Public Works and Housing, visited the site of the Princess Basma Hospital project.

The $110-million project covers an area of 85,000 square metres and has nine floors. It will initially have 566 beds, expandable to 650, out of which 60 beds reserved for intensive care.