Prime minister visits Mafraq, underlines commitment to increase investments in eastern governorate

AMMAN — Prime Minister Jafar Hassan on Tuesday highlighted the strategic importance of the eastern city of Mafraq, citing its diverse economic sectors and its key location on Jordan's borders.

 During a cabinet meeting held in Mafraq and attended by elected council members and civil society representatives, Hassan stressed that the meeting aimed at aligning the governorate's development vision with national priorities, ensuring efficient implementation and optimal use of resources.

Hassan acknowledged that Mafraq has been significantly affected by the influx of Syrian refugees over the past decade. He said Jordan has welcomed the refugees and treated them with dignity, in line with the Kingdom's values and the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra. 

 He also expressed hope for the safe and voluntary return of refugees to Syria and wished the country peace, stability and prosperity, assuring that Jordan will continue to support its neighbouring country in this process.

The Prime Minister also stressed the government's commitment to increasing investment in the King Hussein bin Talal Development Area, enhancing the competitiveness of industries and improving logistics and transport infrastructure at border crossings.

The government is working to complete a gas supply project for the area by 2027, which will reduce production costs and enhance the competitiveness of local factories, thus attracting more investment, he announced, Petra said. 

Hassan revealed that the government plans to provide 10 megawatts of solar energy to power factories in the King Hussein Development Area, which will help industrial expansion and encourage further investment. In addition, the government has allocated JD1 million this year for the construction of a tunnel on the international road in the Thaghra Al Jab region, with another JD1 million earmarked for its completion next year.

Prior to the Cabinet meeting, Hassan visited several factories in the development area, praising their success and reaffirming the government's commitment to supporting these companies to ensure their continued growth. 

He also announced plans to develop a 200-dunnum public park near Al Bayt University to provide green spaces and recreational facilities for children and families. The Prime Minister thanked the University for donating the land for the park, according to Petra. 

Hassan  noted that Mafraq has made significant strides in agricultural production in recent years, underscoring the government's continued support for the sector, which plays a vital role in economic growth, food security and job creation. He outlined several government initiatives aimed at expanding the food processing industry, supporting cooperatives, and providing training, land and financing opportunities for youth and retirees.

Hassan also addressed the issue of unlicensed wells, announcing that the Cabinet had approved a decision to regulate them. This measure will focus on wells used for agricultural purposes in Mafraq and across the Kingdom, with the Ministry of Water to issue clear guidelines.

The Prime Minister also revealed plans to complete the rehabilitation of the Basalt Basin project, which will increase water supplies by the end of 2026 at an estimated cost of JD14.5 million.

In the health sector, Hassan confirmed that renovation work had begun on the Northern Badia Hospital. He also announced plans to launch a tender this year for the construction of an emergency and trauma unit and new wards at the Mafraq Government Hospital, Petra reported. 

The prime minister mentioned several other ongoing projects in Mafraq in the fields of education, energy, agriculture, health and social protection. He also attended the opening ceremony of the new Greater Mafraq Municipality building, expressing hope that it would be a symbol of improved services for the community.

On regional issues, Hassan reiterated that Jordan remains steadfast, backed by its leadership, people and institutions. "The interests of the Kingdom and its people will always come first. We will continue to take all necessary steps to serve these interests and overcome any challenges under the guidance of His Majesty the King."