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Abu Rumman chairs medical liability panel at world council for medical tourism

By - Dec 05,2024 - Last updated at Dec 05,2024

Nasser Abu Rumman

AMMAN — The World Council for Medical Tourism has appointed of Dr. Nasser Abu Rumman as Chair of its Medical Liability Committee. In addition to this role, Dr. Abu Rumman also serves currently as the director of the council's offices in Jordan and Turkey. 

A prominent advocate for medical liability, Abu Rumman, a lawyer, author and researcher in the field of medical liability, is the founder and CEO of Istanbul-based West Asia Consultations for Medical Liability (WACML), a leading organization committed to addressing critical gaps in medical liability standards across West Asia.

Commenting on his appointment at the US-based council, Abu Rumman stated, “Medical liability is the cornerstone of trust between patients and healthcare providers. My goal is to ensure that transparency and patient safety become central to medical tourism efforts globally. This role gives me an opportunity to work toward establishing clear and measurable standards that will benefit patients, healthcare providers, and the medical tourism industry as a whole.”

In line with its commitment to advancing medical tourism, WACML will host a major event in May 2025 at the Royal Hotel in Amman. The event will include a conference dedicated to medical liability, coupled with a medical tourism expo showcasing advancements in healthcare services and patient care standards. This conference aims to address the challenges facing the industry, particularly in ensuring adherence to medical liability protocols, which are vital for fostering trust and enhancing the global competitiveness of healthcare providers.

The importance of medical liability in the field of medical tourism cannot be overstated, according to the jurist.  He said that adherence to medical liability standards ensures the safety and quality of care, bridging gaps in trust between patients and healthcare providers. Abu Rumman emphasized that “strengthening medical liability is not just an ethical obligation, but a key driver for the advancement of medical tourism in the region. It enhances the reputation of healthcare institutions and ensures sustainable growth in this emerging sector.”

The West Asia Consultations for Medical Liability, under Dr. Abu Rumman’s leadership, has been actively addressing the lack of clear liability standards in both public and private healthcare sectors. By focusing on measurable safety and quality indicators, the organization seeks to position the region’s healthcare providers as leaders in patient care excellence.

The World Council for Medical Tourism is an initiative promoting collaboration among legal, medical, academic, and technological professionals to advance the medical tourism industry. By fostering innovation and setting high standards, the council aims to strengthen the sector’s global presence while prioritizing patient rights and safety.

Jordan is ranked among top providers of medical care for patients from abroad. Its appeal is further bolstered by its 121 hospitals, including 71 private hospitals and advanced facilities equipped with the latest technologies. The country also offers competitive pricing, minimal waiting times, and a strategic location bridging East and West, making it accessible for patients worldwide.

King meets US Congress leaders, chairs, members of House, Senate committees

By - Dec 05,2024 - Last updated at Dec 05,2024

His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday meets on Capitol Hill with US Congress leaders from the Senate and House of Representatives, as well as chairs and members of a number of key committees in the two chambers (Photo courtesy of Royal Court)

  • His Majesty stresses need for immediate action to pressure Israel  to ensure adequate, sustained flow of relief, medical aid into Gaza 
  • King reiterates need to reach immediate ceasefire in Gaza, push for political horizon to achieve just and comprehensive peace on basis of two-state solution
  •  King calls for stepping up efforts to ensure success of ceasefire in Lebanon, reaffirms Jordan's rejection of anything that threatens Syria's security,  stability
 
AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday called for stepping up the international humanitarian response in Gaza.
 
During meetings on Capitol Hill with US Congress leaders from the Senate and House of Representatives, as well as chairs and members of a number of key committees in the two chambers, His Majesty stressed the need for immediate action to pressure Israel in order to ensure the adequate and sustained flow of relief and medical aid into the Strip, according to a Royal Court statement. 
 
The King reiterated the need to reach an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and push for a political horizon to achieve just and comprehensive peace on the basis of the two-state solution, while guaranteeing the fulfilment of Palestinians’ legitimate rights, noting the United States’ important role in supporting peace efforts, the statement said.
 
His Majesty warned that failure to stop the war on Gaza will expand conflict in the region and lead to the continuation of the cycle of violence, stressing the need to work towards comprehensive calm in the region.
 
The King called for stepping up efforts to ensure the success of the ceasefire in Lebanon, reaffirming Jordan's rejection of anything that threatens Syria's security and stability.
 
His Majesty also reiterated Jordan’s rejection of any attempts to displace Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza, noting that violence against Palestinians by extremist settlers and violations of Muslim and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem must stop immediately, according to the statement. 
 
The King warned of the consequences of the decision to ban UNRWA’s activities, highlighting the importance of maintaining support for the agency as a lifeline for nearly 2 million Palestinians in Gaza, the statement said.
 
The meetings also covered the strategic partnership between Jordan and the United States, as well as ways to expand it, with the King expressing appreciation for the US’ ongoing support for the Kingdom across multiple development projects and programmes.
 
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, Director of the Office of His Majesty Alaa Batayneh, and Jordan’s Ambassador to the United States Dina Kawar attended the meetings.

Government wins vote of confidence with overwhelming majority

82 lawmakers of 138-strong Lower House vote ‘yea’ for government, 2 abstained, 3 were absent

By - Dec 04,2024 - Last updated at Dec 04,2024

Prime Minister Jafar Hassan addresses the Lower House ahead of the vote of confidence (Petra photo)

AMMAN — The government of Prime Minister Jafar Hassan on Wednesday won the Lower House's vote of confidence with a majority of 82 MPs of the 135 MPs present.

The voting process took place after Hassan delivered his response to the deputies’ remarks made on the government’s policy statement, which he submitted to the House on Sunday.

Of the 135 MPs present on Wednesday, 52 deputies voted “nay” for the government, while two abstained and three were absent.

The vote of confidence was conducted following three days of deliberations in morning and afternoon sessions, during which 129 lawmakers from the 138-strong Lower House taking the podium to present their notes on the government’s policy statement.

Addressing the House ahead of vote, Hassan noted that the government will submit an executive programme to the Chamber in the beginning of January, detailing mechanism, timetables and allocated budgets to execute plans listed in the policy statement.

The prime minister said that the government’s policies are not “built on dreams that cannot be realised” but on executive programmes with well-defined timetables to implement the policy statement which, he said, is centred around implementing the economic, political and administrative modernization endeavour.

Responding to some MPs, who raised concerns over the financing of mega projects listed on the government’s policy statement, including the Aqaba Railway and the National Water Carrier, Hassan explained that these projects rely on domestic and foreign investments, government contributions, and external grants. 

“Most of them are planned to extend over the next four years, and the relevant figures are clearly outlined in the draft budget law submitted,” he said.

On the makeup of the government and the selection of the ministers, Hassan pointed out that the ministers have been selected based on their “competencies, capabilities, determination, and dedication to work and achievement.”

“A significant portion of the team contributed to formulating the vision for economic and political modernisation and fully understands what is required to implement its programmes and projects. They are deeply committed to this vision,” the premier said.

As for the ministers with partisan background, Hassan said that they were chosen for their expertise in economics, media, and administration and not for their party affiliations. “The issue of partisan representation in governments depends on programmatic agreements, commitment to them, and their support in Parliament during the coming phase.”

Hassan noted that the ministers, who participated in the former government, are capable and tasked with programmes and projects they are well-acquainted with and understand the requirements for their implementation, ensuring the completion of these key projects without delay.

The prime minister pledged to maintain constant cooperation and build solid partnership with the House in realizing the government’s plans and serving national interests.

Jordan calls on UN to address Israeli violations, support Palestinian statehood

By - Dec 04,2024 - Last updated at Dec 04,2024

Jordan's Permanent Representative to the UN Mahmoud Hmoud, during a UN General Assembly session on the Palestinian issue, reiterates the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination (Petra photo)

AMMAN — Jordan has urged the United Nations member states to take decisive measures against Israel’s violations of the UN Charter and international law, stressing the need for accountability and the protection of Palestinian rights.

During a UN General Assembly session on the Palestinian issue, Jordan's Permanent Representative to the UN Mahmoud Hmoud reiterated the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra. 

Hmoud also called for the recognition of Palestine as a full UN member state, describing such recognition as the least the international community could do to strengthen Palestinian resilience.

Hmoud emphasised the importance of protecting Palestinians through legal and political measures while holding Israel accountable for its ongoing violations. 

He also called for stepping up efforts to prevent Israel from acquiring weapons and technologies used against Palestinians.

Highlighting the UN’s long history of resolutions and initiatives, Hmoud reiterated the need for a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue, including the establishment of a Palestinian state along the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

The ambassador also condemned Israel’s continued colonial practices, including land seizures, settlement expansions, and the transfer of Israeli citizens into occupied territories.

He also criticised the attacks by extremists and settlers on Palestinians, including the destruction of homes and farms, and the seizure of land.

Hmoud attributed Israel’s persistent violations of international law and UN resolutions to the international community’s failure to hold it accountable, warning that silence and inaction only encourage further violations.

He also accused Israel of exploiting the United Nations to serve its interests, threatening UN officials and missions, and committing violence against humanitarian workers, many of whom have lost their lives in the line of duty.

 

JHCO, Qatar Charity sign agreements to fund humanitarian projects in Jordan, Gaza, West Bank

By - Dec 04,2024 - Last updated at Dec 04,2024

The agreements include delivering aid to underprivileged families in Gaza and purchasing medical equipment for the Augusta Victoria Hospital in Jerusalem (Petra photo)

AMMAN — The Jordanian Hashemite Charity Organisation (JHCO) and Qatar Charity on Wednesday signed eight agreements to implement humanitarian and development projects across Jordan, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip.

JHCO said that the partnership aligns with Qatar Charity's mission to support humanitarian initiatives, including emergency relief, development programmes, and community-based efforts aimed at improving the living conditions of vulnerable groups.

The signing ceremony was attended by Qatari Ambassador to Jordan Sheikh Saud Bin Nasser Bin Jassim Al Thani, Qatar Charity Jordan Office Manager Saleh Marri, JHCO Secretary-General Hussein Shibli and Chairman of the Arab Medical Relief Society Ouni Bashir, according to a JHCO statement.

The key initiatives under these agreements include funding the construction of solar power stations, distributing hygiene kits in the Azraq refugee camp for Syrian refugees, and providing in-kind aid across Jordan.

Other projects involve launching a mobile clinic for the chronically ill in southern Jordan and supporting the "Restoring Hope" initiative to provide prosthetic limbs for amputees in Gaza.

The agreements also include delivering aid to underprivileged families in Gaza and purchasing medical equipment for the Augusta Victoria Hospital in Jerusalem.

Marri underscored Qatar Charity’s commitment to cooperating with Jordanian institutions to address urgent humanitarian challenges, adding that "this partnership reflects our shared commitment to improving lives."

The ambassador also commended the efforts of Qatari institutions operating in Jordan, saying: "These initiatives aim to reach the largest number of people in need in Jordan, Gaza, and the West Bank, and strengthen our collective response to humanitarian crises."

Shibli expressed his gratitude for the ongoing partnership with Qatar Charity, calling the agreements a "crucial" step in supporting local communities, Syrian refugees, and Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza.

Bashir emphasised the significance of healthcare projects funded by Qatar Charity, noting that the mobile clinic initiative will enhance access to healthcare for chronically ill patients in southern Jordan, especially in underserved areas lacking comprehensive medical services.

HIMAM forum highlights international double standards on human rights, focuses on Gaza’s ongoing crisis

By - Dec 04,2024 - Last updated at Dec 04,2024

AMMAN — The 2024 annual forum of the coalition of Jordanian civil society organisations, HIMAM, concluded on Tuesday, calling for the rejection of donor-imposed conditions that undermine core values, particularly those related to defending Palestinian rights.

The forum, which brought together local and international human rights experts as well as representatives from Jordanian civil society organisations and international bodies, provided a platform for robust discussions on human rights challenges.

It also featured three key sessions covering 16 topics, with a central focus on the human rights challenges exacerbated by Israel’s ongoing aggression in Gaza.

HIMAM coordinator Hadeel Abdel Aziz presented a position paper calling for the protection of civil society’s independence against potential political pressures.

Abdel Aziz questioned the effectiveness of current international mechanisms, considering whether the issue lies in the tools available and whether they should be abandoned or reformed.

Despite the challenging circumstances, she stressed that HIMAM remains determined and refuses to give in to a sense of helplessness.

The first session focused on the importance of leveraging international law to address human rights violations.

During the session, Director of the Al Quds Centre for Political Studies Oraib Rantawi highlighted the stark double standards in the international community’s response, drawing comparisons between the international outrage over Ukraine and the ongoing genocide in Gaza.

Marwan Mashar, former foreign minister and vice president of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, highlighted the selective application of international law over the past century, especially concerning Palestine.

He also stressed the need for “endurance and persistence” in holding Israel accountable.

The second session examined the lack of legal accountability for violations and the role of international bodies in addressing these crimes.

The final session addressed the challenges faced by civil society in conflict zones across Palestine and the broader Middle East.

Director of the Palestinian NGO Network in Gaza Amjad Shawa praised the resilience of local organisations in providing aid and supporting displaced communities.

Director of the Arab NGO Network for Development Ziad Abdel Samad discussed the challenges facing civil society organisations, including global human rights regression, donor-imposed conditions, and declining independence.

Foreign Ministry checks on safety of Jordanians in South Korea amid political unrest

By - Dec 04,2024 - Last updated at Dec 04,2024

AMMAN — The Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that it was closely monitoring the situation of Jordanian citizens residing in the Republic of Korea following recent political developments in the country.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Sufian Qudah said that the Directorate of Operations and Consular Affairs, in cooperation with the Jordanian embassy in Seoul, was actively following up on the status of Jordanians in Korea, reassuring that all members of the Jordanian community are safe.

The ministry has advised Jordanian citizens in Korea to remain cautious, avoid areas with large gatherings, and follow the safety guidelines issued by local authorities, according to a Foreign Ministry statement.

Jordanian nationals seeking assistance can contact the Jordanian Embassy in Seoul through its hotline at +821049980962. They may also reach out to the Ministry’s Operations Center Unit at +962799562903, +962799562471, or +962799562193. Alternatively, they can send inquiries via email to [email protected].

South Korea's President Yoon Suk -yeol on Tuesday declared emergency martial law, accusing the opposition of being "anti-state forces intent on overthrowing the regime" amid parliamentary wrangling over a budget bill, according to AFP.

Yoon's declaration of South Korea's first martial law in more than four decades was swiftly overturned by lawmakers in a night of drama, but has plunged the country into political turmoil and alarmed its close allies.

National exports to GAFTA, NAFTA up by over 14% by end of September - DoS

By - Dec 04,2024 - Last updated at Dec 04,2024

The Department of Statistics (DoS) says that national exports saw significant growth by the end of September, with key trade partners and economic blocs contributing to the overall increase (Petra photo)

AMMAN — National exports saw significant growth by the end of September, with key trade partners and economic blocs contributing to the overall increase, according to figures released by the Department of Statistics (DoS).

The report showed that exports to the Greater Arab Free Trade Area (GAFTA) grew by 14.4 per cent, reaching JD2.638 billion, up from JD2.305 billion during the same period last year, driven by increased exports to Saudi Arabia, which totalled JD851 million.

National exports to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) reached JD1.774 billion at the end of September, marking a 15.5 per cent increase from JD1.536 billion last year, driven mainly by a rise in exports to the US, which totalled JD1.712 billion.

Exports to the European Union increased by 0.6 per cent, rising to JD313 million from JD311 million last year, with Belgium contributing significantly, accounting for JD66 million of the total.

Trade with non-Arab Asian countries declined by 20.5 per cent, falling to JD1.241 billion from JD1.561 billion, primarily due to reduced exports to India, which totalled JD675 million.

Exports to other economic blocs dropped by 16.1 per cent, totalling JD447 million, down from JD533 million in the same period last year, primarily due to a decline in shipments to the free zone, which amounted to JD170 million.

Minister urges international cooperation to combat desertification, water scarcity

By - Dec 04,2024 - Last updated at Dec 04,2024

Deputising His Majesty King Abdullah, Minister of Water and Irrigation Raed Abu Saud attends the One Planet Summit in Riyadh, held between December 3 and 4 (Petra photo)

AMMAN — Deputising His Majesty King Abdullah, Minister of Water and Irrigation Raed Abu Saud attended the One Planet Summit in Riyadh, held between December 3 and 4.

The summit focused on promoting international cooperation on pressing issues including water, climate, biodiversity, pollution, desertification, and drought, bringing together international leaders, the United Nations, and international organisations, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra.

Abu Saud underscored the Arab region's mounting challenges, noting that over 82 per cent of its land is at risk of degradation, with 20 per cent threatened by desertification due to climate change and erratic rainfall.

He also cautioned that by 2050, three out of four people in the region could face severe water scarcity, urging increased investment in shared water resources and cooperative approaches to address these crises.

Abu Saud highlighted Jordan's proactive efforts to combat water shortages, including the National Water Carrier Project, which relies on renewable energy to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

"The project leverages renewable energy to enhance water sustainability, improve supply efficiency, and expand wastewater treatment to international standards," he said adding that treated water is reused for restricted agricultural purposes, preserving potable water supplies for drinking.

He also drew attention to Jordan’s unprecedented water challenges, with per capita availability at just 61 cubic metres annually—the lowest globally.

The minister also commended Jordan's water sector for achieving excellence in service delivery, citing the rehabilitation of water networks, loss reduction initiatives, and high service coverage rates—94 per cent for water supply and 68 per cent for sanitation.

Abu Saud also called for intensified international efforts to combat desertification, emphasising the importance of innovative and sustainable solutions to mitigate the impacts of climate change and ensure a resilient future.

Jordan hosts inaugural Jordanian-Gulf investment conference to boost economic ties

By - Dec 04,2024 - Last updated at Dec 04,2024

Deputising for His Majesty King Abdullah, Minister of Investment Mothanna Gharaibeh on Wednesday opens the inaugural Jordanian-Gulf Investment Conference at the King Hussein Bin Talal Convention Center (Petra photo)

AMMAN — Deputising for His Majesty King Abdullah, Minister of Investment Mothanna Gharaibeh on Wednesday opened the inaugural Jordanian-Gulf Investment Conference at the King Hussein Bin Talal Convention Center in the Dead Sea.

The conference, organised by the Jordan Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) chambers, carries the theme "Partnerships, Investment, Economic Integration." 

It aims to explore investment opportunities in the Kingdom’s promising strategic sectors, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

The event features participation from GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, as well as leaders and board members of Gulf chambers of commerce, Gulf investors in Jordan, Jordanian business leaders, and public and private sector institutions. 

Sessions delve into Jordan's key economic strengths, including tourism, information technology, mining, creative industries, and energy.  

In a separate meeting, Prime Minister Jafar Hassan welcomed the delegations, led by Secretary-General of the GCC Jassem Budaiwi, alongside Gulf and Arab business leaders.

The discussions centred on boosting economic and investment cooperation, with particular emphasis on leveraging Jordan’s free trade agreements to expand access to international markets.

Hassan underscored the Kingdom's strong, brotherly ties with the Gulf states and the close relations between His Majesty King Abdullah and Gulf leaders

He also highlighted the significance of increasing private-sector cooperation and commended the successful joint projects across multiple sectors.

Budaiwi extended his thanks to Jordan for its hospitality, praising the country’s reliability and strengths in industries such as pharmaceuticals and energy. 

He also reiterated the GCC’s commitment to enhancing economic cooperation and stimulating investment in Jordan.

The conference coincides with the 65th meeting of the GCC Chambers Board of Directors, which is being held in Jordan for the first time outside the GCC, further cementing the "deep-rooted" ties between Jordan and the GCC states.

 

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