The Jordanian and Italian governments on Wednesday signed the Subsidiary Agreement for the Indicative Country Program (2021-2023), which includes the Italian commitments to Jordan of €235 million (grants, loans and debt-for-development swap).
The agreement aims to strengthen the Jordanian-Italian partnership and support development priorities in the Kingdom, according to a statement by the Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation where the agreement was inked.
This agreement was signed by Minister of Planning and International Cooperation Nasser Shraideh and Italian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Marina Sereni, in the presence of the Italian ambassador in Amman, Fabio Cassese.
The value of the grants within the new Italian aid program agreement amounts to 30 million euros, through which development projects will be funded for local communities hosting Syrian refugees.
The agreement includes arrangements for a debt-for-development swap of 20 million euros to finance projects that promote inclusive and sustainable development.
The agreement also includes soft loans in the amount of 185 million euros, of which 50 million euros are allocated for the national water conveyance project, an amount of 85 million euros to support the health sector through the general budget, and an amount of 50 million euros to support the agricultural sector through the general budget.
Minister Shraideh stressed that Jordan greatly values its relationship with the Italian Republic bilaterally and in the context of the EU, saying: “The distinguished relationship between both countries has reflected positively on our bilateral cooperation where His Majesty King Abdullah II attaches great importance to the bilateral relations with Italy and always keen to strengthen and consolidate these relations.”
He emphasized that the Jordanian-Italian partnership is needed more than ever and the signing marks an additional step towards enhancing this partnership and cooperation between Jordan and Italy.
“We look forward to commencing our discussion on the programs as articulated in the agreement of the Indicative Program 2021-2023 including the two Sector Budget Support Programs; to strengthen the health system, and to strengthen the agricultural sector,” the minister said.
In turn, the Italian official underlined her country’s commitment to strengthening relations with Jordan and opening wider areas for joint cooperation, whether at the bilateral level or through the European Union.
She stressed that supporting Jordan and its development process and enhancing its security and stability is of utmost importance to Italy and the European Union.
Source: Jordan News Agency