Amman, April 23 (Petra) -- A high-level regional conference focused on promoting integrity in the transport sector across the Arab region commenced Wednesday in Amman, organized by the Jordanian Integrity and Anti-Corruption Commission in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Held under the title "Integrity in the Transport Sector in the Arab Region: Risks, Solutions, and Stakeholders’ Roles", the two-day event was inaugurated under the patronage of Minister of State for Economic Affairs Muhannad Shehadeh, representing the Prime Minister.

Minister of Transport Wissam Tahtamouni opened the conference by emphasizing the strategic importance of the transport sector to Jordan’s internal connectivity and its role as a regional logistics hub. She said the Kingdom is committed to developing the sector through legislation, strategic projects, and effective partnerships, noting that without integrity, the sector remains vulnerable to corruption.

"Corruption does not merely waste public funds; it also hinders progress, undermines trust, weakens service quality, and creates an unfavorable investment climate," Tahtamouni said. She stressed that transparency and accountability are prerequisites for ensuring the sector’s efficiency, safety, and fairness.

The minister noted that the conference offers a platform for deepening regional dialogue and building partnerships to drive sustainable reforms. She reiterated Jordan’s commitment to integrity as a foundational value, not a situational choice, stressing that "trust begins with transparency and the rule of law."

Chairman of the Integrity and Anti-Corruption Commission Muhannad Hijazi described the transport sector as a central pillar of economic integration and regional cooperation, highlighting its role in facilitating human and economic connectivity. He stated that well-managed transport systems serve as enablers of job creation, urban-rural linkages, and national development.

Hijazi added that political and security shifts in the region have negatively impacted transport networks and trade flows, stressing the need for strengthened regional cooperation to ensure the smooth movement of people and goods. He pointed out that despite regional instability, Jordan’s secure and stable environment has allowed its transport sector to maintain operational continuity and development momentum.

UNDP’s Regional Centre Director Mary Kawar said the conference aims to reinforce good governance in the transport sector through targeted policies and institutional frameworks, particularly within transport ministries and public entities. She noted that while efforts to enhance governance exist across the region, they often lack sufficient attention and coordination.

Kawar emphasized the importance of sector-specific approaches to anti-corruption, saying generalized strategies have limited impact. She called for a deeper understanding of the risks facing the transport sector and more focused solutions to promote sustainable development and public trust.

This is the first conference of its kind in the Arab world dedicated to addressing the integrity of transport governance from a corruption-risk perspective. It brings together approximately 150 participants, including senior government officials, anti-corruption agency heads, transport ministry representatives, lawmakers, experts, and delegates from civil society, the private sector, the United Nations, the World Bank, and the League of Arab States.

Over two days, attendees will explore risk management strategies in transport governance, the role of integrity in supporting economic growth, environmental protection, and access to essential services. The conference will also introduce a series of regional initiatives designed to improve governance efficiency and attract public and private investment, contributing to broader economic integration and sustainable development across the region.

//Petra// RZ

23/04/2025 13:11:47