Amman, Jordan – Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reaffirmed India's commitment to fostering durable peace and stability in West Asia, during a recent visit to Jordan. The visit, which marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Jordan, saw PM Modi holding talks with King Abdullah II, focusing on strengthening bilateral ties and exchanging perspectives on regional and global issues of mutual interest.
During the meeting at the Al Husseiniya Palace in Amman, both leaders expressed a united stance against terrorism, extremism, and radicalization. PM Modi lauded King Abdullah II's leadership in countering these global evils, acknowledging Jordan's significant role in regional peace efforts. King Abdullah II, in turn, conveyed strong support for India's fight against terrorism, condemning it in all forms.
PM Modi also commended King Abdullah II for his active and positive role concerning the situation in Gaza, expressing hope for lasting peace and stability in the region. Discussions also addressed the need to step up humanitarian efforts in Gaza and to ensure the implementation of agreements aimed at ending the conflict.
Beyond security concerns, the leaders explored avenues to deepen the India-Jordan partnership across various sectors. These include trade and investment, defense and security, renewable energy, fertilizer and agriculture, digital technology, infrastructure, tourism, and heritage. Acknowledging India as Jordan's third-largest trading partner, PM Modi proposed an ambitious goal to increase bilateral trade to $5 billion over the next five years. Furthermore, he suggested collaboration between Jordan's digital payment system and India's United Payments Interface (UPI).
The visit also saw the finalization of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in the fields of culture, renewable energy, water management, and digital public infrastructure. A twinning arrangement between Petra and Ellora was also established.
PM Modi recalled King Abdullah II's participation in a 2018 conference in India on Islamic heritage, emphasizing the importance of promoting moderation for regional and global peace. He also noted their first meeting in 2015 at the UN, which focused on countering violent extremism.
This visit is the first full-fledged bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Jordan in 37 years. Following his stay in Jordan, PM Modi is scheduled to visit Ethiopia and Oman as part of a three-nation tour aimed at bolstering India's ties in West Asia and Africa.
