Joint Palestinian-Jordanian Efforts Aim to Remove Trade Barriers and Enhance Economic Cooperation

Amman: Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa and Jordanian counterpart Ja'far Hassan convened in Amman to discuss avenues for bolstering economic, financial, and logistical collaboration between Palestine and Jordan. According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, the leaders focused on establishing executive mechanisms to overcome challenges impeding the exchange of goods and people, strengthening the bond between the two nations under the guidance of President Mahmoud Abbas and King Abdullah II. A Joint Supreme Ministerial Committee will be formed to devise and implement strategic economic plans, ensuring the timely execution of joint initiatives. The dialogue also addressed enhancing financial ties between the Palestine Monetary Authority and the Central Bank of Jordan, with an emphasis on promoting the use of the Jordanian Dinar in the Palestinian market. Both parties underscored the need for coordinated international efforts to pressure Israel into lifting restrictions at the semi-closed Karama Cr ossing, thus facilitating smoother commercial movement. Additionally, a plan to segregate passenger and commercial traffic on bridges was discussed, aiming to improve efficiency and ease transportation. The leaders agreed to expedite processes for Palestinian agricultural exports to Jordan and beyond, removing barriers to ensure a seamless flow of goods. Furthermore, the talks highlighted the importance of logistical follow-ups and maximizing the use of Aqaba's port facilities to boost Palestinian trade competitiveness. In the energy domain, commitments were made to enhance electrical interconnection projects and collaborate on petroleum ventures, with a focus on joint strategic developments. The discussions concluded with an agreement on mutual recognition of standards and certifications to facilitate unimpeded goods entry, alongside technical support for Palestine in IT, digitization, and e-commerce legislation. The two Prime Ministers affirmed that these understandings constitute an important step to e nhance economic cooperation and joint development, and contribute to supporting the steadfastness of the Palestinian people and strengthening their ability to confront the imposed economic challenges.