AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Monday met with World Bank President Jim Yong Kim in Washington and discussed means to develop cooperation.
The King voiced his appreciation for the bank’s support to Jordan in implementing its economic programmes, in addition to its support for national development plans to enable the country to overcome current challenges, especially those resulting from regional crises, according to a Royal Court statement.
His Majesty highlighted the comprehensive reform process Jordan is embarking on, particularly in the economic field, citing the endorsement of new laws that have had a positive impact on economic development and investments.
He acquainted Kim with the “huge” economic challenges facing Jordan due to regional unrest, especially the burdens imposed due to hosting a large number of Syrian refugees.
His Majesty highlighted the importance of the World Bank’s support to Jordan as it deals with the burdens resulting from the Syrian refugee crisis, urging the international community to increase its assistance to the Kingdom, especially its local communities.
For his part, Kim said the World Bank will continue to offer technical and development support to the Kingdom within the partnership strategy between them, adding that the international organisation will also continue to support Jordan’s economy and sustainable development plans.
He expressed faith in Jordan’s ability to overcome various economic challenges in its way, stressing his commitment to holding meetings with King Abdullah for consultations over regional challenges to include His Majesty’s vision in World Bank plans and future programmes.
Royal Court Chief Fayez Tarawneh, King’s Office Director Imad Fakhoury and Jordan’s Ambassador to the US Alia Bouran attended the meeting.
In an interview with the Jordan News Agency, Petra, Kim said the World Bank is grateful to Jordan for hosting such a great number of Syrian refugees.
He added that he discussed with the King the World Bank’s assistance to Jordan, which includes $150 million, in addition to $60 million to support municipalities.
Kim said the bank will continue cooperating with Jordan, and that it is currently looking into its assistance to the Kingdom for 2014.
The World Bank will continue providing its assistance in the form of direct support to Jordan’s state budget to enable the government to sort its priorities and bolster the reforms it has adopted in public spending, managing the public debt and enhancing the Kingdom’s business environment.
