Khaberni - An article by Ambassador Ali Abu Ali Kreishan
The business-oriented Asian tour undertaken by His Majesty King Abdullah II to Japan, Singapore, Pakistan, Vietnam, and Indonesia represents a strategic shift in Jordan's economic policy, redirecting and adjusting the economic compass towards the fastest growing economies in the world. These visits come at a profoundly important global stage, witnessing a restructuring of global trade and investment maps, which enhances Jordan's position as a strategic link between Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
The reception His Majesty received in the countries included in this tour was not just customary diplomatic protocols or celebratory displays; it was a profound embodiment of the prestigious status he enjoys internationally. His Majesty was received as a world leader with high value and distinguished standing among world leaders, featuring honorable official receptions, where, at one station, aircraft from the air force were formed to accompany him as a welcome on his arrival, in a majestic aerial scene reflecting the depth of relationship and mutual respect between Jordan and those countries. Furthermore, His Majesty was awarded high-level medals, in appreciation of his humanitarian and leadership role. Thus, the reception was an international testament to the big role His Majesty the King plays and the prestigious status Jordan enjoys under his leadership.
Japan was the first stop on the royal tour, serving as a launch platform towards quality partnerships in the field of advanced technology. The visit deepened the strategic cooperation between the two countries, focusing on automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things, which directly intersect with Jordan's priorities in adopting Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies.
Singapore then represented another pivotal stop, where discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in vital sectors including trade, investment, education, water management, and energy. The official meetings also expanded the horizons of economic and defense cooperation, strengthening the strong bilateral relations between the two countries.
Pakistan and Indonesia represented two other strategic stops, where these countries represent a massive market with a population exceeding 380 million. The visits opened wide prospects for Jordanian exports, especially in the pharmaceuticals, chemicals, food products, and textiles sectors, benefiting from the competitive advantages Jordan enjoys.
This royal tour represents a qualitative leap in Jordan's economic orientation towards diversifying international partnerships and opening up to one of the most dynamic regions in the global economy. The tour provides exceptional opportunities to enhance trade exchange and attract foreign investments in technology, renewable energy, technical education, and manufacturing industries.
The tour enhances Jordan's status as a regional hub for business and logistics services and enables it to benefit from advanced developmental models in technology transfer and national capacity building. It also opens new prospects for cooperation in cybersecurity, benefiting from the technological advancement of countries like Japan and Singapore.
The importance of this tour is highlighted in vital industrial sectors, notably the textile sector, where Vietnam and Indonesia are global centers for the garment industry targeted for export. With shifts in global markets, Jordan has become a competitive choice due to its advanced infrastructure, competitive operational costs, and free market entry privileges to the U.S. market.
The Asian tour by His Majesty King Abdullah II represents a significant historical turn in the Jordanian economic journey, signifying a comprehensive vision for repositioning Jordan on the global economic map. It also lays the foundation for strategic partnerships with countries that possess advanced experiences in modern technologies and advanced industries.
This tour represents a strategic investment in Jordan's economic future and a practical translation of His Majesty's visions in building a strong Jordanian economy capable of achieving sustainable growth, thus affirming the wisdom and insightful vision of the Hashemite leadership in leading Jordan towards new horizons of progress and prosperity.
Finally, I sincerely say thank you very much His Majesty, and may God strengthen you and grant you well-being, His Majesty Abu Al Hussein, for your benevolent, blessed, and continuous efforts.
His Majesty also receives the high-esteemed Appreciation Medal adorned with the love of all Jordanians.
