King briefed on government programme to implement economic vision in mining, energy

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Tuesday was briefed on the government’s programme to implement the Economic Modernisation Vision in mining and energy.

During a meeting held at Al Husseiniya Palace and attended by HRH Crown Prince Hussein, King Abdullah stressed the importance of devising a strategy to develop new potash and phosphate value added products rather than only raw material, according to a Royal Court statement.

His Majesty called for expediting the revision of regulations governing mining, in line with international best practices, to attract top companies in the field.

The King said expanding the mining sector would contribute to creating more jobs in the future, calling for promoting investment in this field.

His Majesty also highlighted the importance of supporting small and medium-sized enterprises through solar power as a cost-effective option, in addition to moving forward with green hydrogen projects as opportunities for self-sufficiency and exports.

Prime Minister Bisher Khasawneh gave a briefing on the government’s priorities in mining and energy, highlighting the important role of these sectors in supporting the national economy and boosting the gross domestic product.

He added that mining is a vital sector in the Economic Modernisation Vision due to its high industrial value.

Energy Minister Saleh Kharabsheh gave a briefing on the ministry’s priorities in 2023 within the economic vision, as well as the implementation timeframe.

He pointed to seven memorandums of understanding signed last year with local and international firms to prospect minerals, citing that as part of the ministry’s efforts to put Jordan on the regional and international mining map in order to boost economic growth by increasing national exports.

Kharabsheh said the ministry is currently working on finalising a national strategy to develop and produce green hydrogen, within technical and legislative tracks while ensuring public safety.