Jordan eyes further partnerships with French investors

AMMAN — Jordan is looking to consolidate its partnership with French companies by establishing more projects in the capital and in Irbid, especially in the fields of transport and infrastructure, Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour said Monday.

Speaking at the Franco Jordanian Forum on Urban Smart, which convened in Amman with aim of looking into joint economic and environment projects between the two countries, Ensour said the transport and infrastructure sectors are under extreme pressure due to the migration waves into Jordan from neighbouring countries.

He also thanked the French embassy, the French Agency for Development and the Franco-Jordanian Business Club (CAFRAJ).

The two-day event is organised by CAFRAJ in cooperation with the embassy, the Greater Amman Municipality, the Ministry of Environment and a number of Jordanian and French companies. 

At the forum, representatives of the public and private sectors in Jordan and France are discussing the possibility of further joint economic ventures.

On the sidelines of the forum, Ensour inaugurated an exhibition showcasing products by French companies.

Also speaking at the forum, CAFRAJ Chairman Ahmed Armoush said Amman is growing rapidly and requires creative solutions for its problems.

French Ambassador to Jordan Caroline Dumas stressed the importance of holding the event in politically stable Jordan, where cities are witnessing economic growth tied to their population, which requires enhancing the services presented to residents.

Amman, she said, is working to become a model for other cities in the region.

Environment Minister Taher Shakhshir also said the forum comes at an important time for Jordan, as the country is entering into new opportunities in “green economy”.

Amman Mayor Aqel Biltaji voiced commitment to transforming the capital into a smart and environment-friendly city.