Amman, July 14 (Petra) – Minister of Transport Dr. Nidal Qatamin said
the transportation sector enjoys the direct attention and support of
His Majesty King Abdullah II, as a “key” driver for economic growth
and the Kingdom’s “competitiveness.”

The minister’s remarks came during an ad hoc session, held by Center
for Studies and Research at Jordan Engineers Association (JEA) on
railways in the Kingdom, themed: “From a Transportation Project to a
Pillar for Restructuring the National Economy and Enhancing the
Kingdom’s Position as a Regional Logistics Hub.”

Qatamin added that the sector also receives “close” follow-up from
the Prime Minister, as part of the government’s priorities for
implementing the Economic Modernization Vision, which places the
transport and logistics sector at “the nexus of national
development.”

He stated the government is placing “special attention” to railway
projects, which have become a “key” component in developing the
national transportation system.

As for its impact, he said this vision would enhance efficiency of
supply chains, cut transportation costs, and connect production
centers with export outlets, which would “positively” affect the
national economy.

He added that Jordan’s “strategic” location makes it a “natural
corridor” connecting the region not only by land but also by air.

He announced approximately 700 aircraft cross Jordanian airspace
daily, following the development and enhancement of air navigation
systems.

He said ths process contributes to “significant” financial revenues
for the Kingdom and strengthens its position as a “regional hub for
transportation and logistics.”

Regarding the railway sector, Qatamin stated the project was launched
under a Jordanian-Emirati partnership to construct a 360-kilometer
railway linking the Port of Aqaba to mining and industrial areas.

The project, with an investment cost of $2.3 billion, aims to
transport phosphate and potash to the industrial port in Aqaba
“efficiently,” he pointed out.

He noted this enterprise represents the first step of the national
railway network, which aims to connect the Kingdom’s various regions
in the future.

At the regional level, he noted this policy would pave the way for
rail links between Jordan and neighboring Arab countries, which would
boost trade, investment, and regional economic integration.

//Petra// AG