Cabinet approves key decisions to drive infrastructure, economic growth

In a Cabinet session chaired by Prime Minister Jafar Hassan on Sunday, several important decisions were made to support Jordan's development, including the approval of a new public joint-stock company and amendments to key regulations.

The government approved the establishment of the "Jordanian Company for Urban Development and Infrastructure", a state-owned entity under the Jordanian Investment Fund.

The company will oversee major infrastructure projects, including public transportation systems, alternative roads, and rail transport across the kingdom. It will also develop new city projects, enhance investment opportunities, and manage public utilities.

Additionally, the Cabinet approved the creation of specialized companies to manage various infrastructure projects, such as the new international football stadium, based on the directive of His Majesty King Abdullah II. These projects will be developed in partnership with the private sector, with some being offered as investment opportunities.

In line with the Economic Modernization Vision, the Cabinet amended the guidelines for electricity connections under the Rural Fils initiative to support industry expansion and simplify access to electricity for citizens. This change is designed to create more jobs and reduce unemployment.

The Cabinet also approved a new customs system for the Aqaba Special Economic Zone, aimed at facilitating operations and improving the investment climate.

To further promote economic growth, the Cabinet resolved 1,082 tax-related cases involving businesses and individuals in collaboration with the Income and Sales Tax Department.

In other decisions, the Cabinet approved changes to the Jordanian Olympic Committee Law to align with the updated Olympic Charter and established a new West Irbid Court to address the area's growing population.

On the international front, Jordan's Cabinet approved a project to enhance veterinary services in cooperation with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), aimed at improving food production systems and land quality by 2030.

Jordan also moved forward with its membership in the Women's Development Organization of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Social Development was tasked with completing the necessary steps for this membership.

Lastly, the Cabinet approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Waterloo, Canada, to explore educational and business incubation collaborations, focusing on integrating academic learning with practical experience.