Amman, June 1 (Petra) — Jordan’s healthcare sector receives
continuous royal support from His Majesty King Abdullah II based on
the belief that human health is the foundation of development, Health
Minister Ibrahim Al Bdour said on Monday.

Speaking at a ceremony marking the kingdom’s 80th Independence Day
and the 25th anniversary of Istiklal Hospital, Al Bdour said this
royal commitment has driven infrastructure upgrades and investment in
human resources, and solidified Jordan’s position as a regional hub
for medical treatment and education.

The event was attended by Tourism Minister Imad Al-Hijazeen,
alongside lawmakers, healthcare executives, and members of the
diplomatic corps.

Al Bdour added that the health ministry operates under a
participatory approach that centers on citizens, focusing on building
a more efficient and sustainable healthcare system through expanding
services, advancing digital transformation, and upgrading medical
facilities. He praised the private medical sector’s role in
supporting the national healthcare system and boosting medical
tourism.

Istiklal Hospital Chief Executive Officer Ahmad Al-Ahmad said the
hospital represents a successful model for Saudi investments in
Jordan, providing more than 1,000 direct jobs. He also announced the
launch of the “Istiklal Medical Tourism Platform” to further enhance
the kingdom’s standing as a premier medical destination.

Al-Ahmad noted that the hospital, which opened under royal patronage
in 2001, has treated patients of 97 nationalities. The facility has
earned accreditations from the Health Care Accreditation Council of
Jordan and Accreditation Canada, alongside certification from the
American Heart Association, making it one of the largest private
teaching hospitals utilizing artificial intelligence and automation.

Jordan Medical Association President Issa Al-Khashashneh praised the
country’s medical achievements and regional leadership. He commended
private hospitals, particularly Istiklal Hospital, for training
specialist physicians and promoting medical tourism under the health
ministry’s umbrella, reaffirming the association’s commitment to
partnering with medical institutions.

The ceremony included presentations on Jordan’s medical achievements
over eight decades, the history of Istiklal Hospital, and the
kingdom’s supportive investment environment. It also featured poetry
recitals, traditional artistic performances, and folklore dances.

At the conclusion of the event, Al Bdour honored a number of medical,
healthcare, and administrative staff members at Istiklal Hospital in
recognition of their service over the past quarter-century.

//Petra// AF