The Minister of Labor Maen al-Qatamin Sunday spoke about ongoing government work to address Jordan’s biggest challenges, including unemployment, weak investment, and other economic problems.

According to him, the unemployment rate in the kingdom has increased by four percent during the crisis, which is ‘normal’ by global standards, due to worldwide closures and restrictions.

He noted that decisions to close certain sectors were made based on recommendations from the National Committee for Epidemics, not the government.

He appeared hopeful that sectors would begin opening soon, thanks to a recent decrease in the number of COVID-19 cases in the kingdom. He seemed confident that Jordanians will not see total lockdowns again, saying, “the "total lockdown scenario for a long period of time has almost disappeared” and that “all indications point to breakthroughs at the end of the month.”

In addition to the ceasing of lockdowns, Qatamin said that three things will contribute to the reduction of unemployment: including increasing the ability to attract investment, the Ministry of Labor's policies, and innovative programs.

Without investment funds, he said, the unemployment problem cannot be solved. He expected that there will be progress on investment in Jordan within six months.

He also said that, for the next few years, the Vocational Training Corporation (VTC) will offer training programs for electronic skills, so as to better prepare citizens for the current labor market.