Strengthening Ties: PM Modi's Visit to Jordan and Business Forum Insights
A Warm Welcome in Jordan
On December 16, in a notable display of friendship, Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II of Jordan personally drove Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Jordan Museum. This gesture symbolizes the strong relationship between India and Jordan.
The Crown Prince, a direct descendant of Prophet Mohammad, was acknowledged by Modi in a social media post where he expressed gratitude for the insights into Jordan's rich history and culture that he received during the visit.
A Vision for Progress
Modi shared that he had extensive discussions with the Crown Prince, highlighting his evident dedication to advancing Jordan's development. He praised Al-Hussein's remarkable contributions in various sectors, including youth empowerment, sports, space exploration, innovation, and support for individuals with disabilities.
Earlier that day, Modi and King Abdullah II participated in the India-Jordan Business Forum, which also saw the presence of Crown Prince Hussein and Jordan's Minister of Trade and Industry.
Fostering Economic Collaboration
During the forum, both leaders emphasized the necessity of enhancing business connections between India and Jordan. They urged industry leaders from both nations to transform existing potential into tangible growth.
King Abdullah II remarked on the possibility of leveraging Jordan's free trade agreements alongside India's economic strength to establish a robust economic corridor linking South Asia with West Asia and beyond.
Modi pointed out that India's rapid economic growth positions it as a significant partner for Jordan, offering vast business opportunities. He described the India-Jordan relationship as one built on historical trust and future economic prospects.
Invitation for Partnership
The Prime Minister encouraged Jordanian businesses to collaborate with India, taking advantage of its vast consumer market of 1.4 billion people, a solid manufacturing sector, and a stable policy framework.
He proposed an ambitious goal of doubling bilateral trade with Jordan to USD 5 billion within the next five years.
Modi also highlighted potential areas for collaboration, including digital infrastructure, IT, fintech, health technology, and agricultural technology, inviting start-ups from both countries to work together in these fields.
A Broader Journey
Modi's visit to Amman, which began on Monday, marks the first stop on his four-day tour that will also include Ethiopia and Oman. This trip underscores India's commitment to strengthening ties with nations in the region.