Amman, April 27 (Petra) -- Dutch Ambassador to Jordan, Harry Verweij, highlighted the enduring and robust relationship between the Netherlands and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Marking 74 years of diplomatic ties, the Ambassador emphasized that the connection is built on a foundation of mutual respect and shared interests, further strengthened by the long-standing friendship between the two Royal Houses.

"The decades-long relationship between the Netherlands and Jordan is strong, long-standing and built on mutual respect and shared interests," stated Ambassador Verweij in an interview with the Jordan News Agency (Petra).

. This partnership manifests across diverse areas, including significant support for Jordan's hosting of refugees, cooperation on water and climate resilience, and fostering economic development.

A recent testament to this commitment is the €31 million grant signed by the Netherlands for the vital Aqaba-Amman Water Desalination and Conveyance Project, underscoring the depth of the bilateral cooperation and the Netherlands' dedication to Jordan's development priorities.

A Pillar of Regional Stability
Ambassador Verweij affirmed the Netherlands' view of Jordan as a crucial partner in promoting and maintaining regional peace and stability. "Jordan plays a vital role in promoting and maintaining regional stability," he noted, specifically valuing the Kingdom's significant humanitarian contribution in hosting large refugee populations.

The Netherlands recognizes Jordan's constructive engagement in mediation and peace efforts as significant contributions to regional calm. "Jordan is an important interlocutor for the Netherlands both regionally and on the international stage," the Ambassador added, also reiterating Dutch commitment to the status quo and support for Jordan's custodianship of the Holy Sites.

Economic Ties and Development Support
Economically, the Netherlands stands as one of Jordan's key European trading partners. Bilateral trade primarily involves agricultural products, machinery, and pharmaceuticals. Ambassador Verweij pointed out a positive trend: "As of November 2024, NL emerged as Jordan’s top European export destination, with Jordanian exports reaching JD 80 million, reflecting a 9.6% year-on-year growth."

He also expressed pleasure that Jordan’s Investment Promotion Strategy designates the Netherlands as a priority European partner, anticipating further enhancement of trade relations.

Beyond trade, the Netherlands actively contributes to Jordan's economic development, aligning with the Economic Modernization Vision. Since 2019, Dutch funding instruments have supported Jordan's private sector, focusing on creating decent jobs, especially for women, youth, and vulnerable groups. Future cooperation, spanning the next four years, will concentrate on macro-economic reforms, ICT nearshoring, improving SME access to finance, and promoting green industries.

A notable initiative is the "Orange Corners" entrepreneurial program. "Since 2022, Orange Corners has successfully provided over 70 young entrepreneurs with training, networking, and funding to grow their startups," Ambassador Verweij shared with pride, adding that over 100 female entrepreneurs have also utilized the program to build connections and explore partnerships.

Supporting Refugees and Host Communities
The Ambassador expressed deep appreciation for Jordan's sustained generosity in hosting refugees, particularly from Syria. "The Netherlands stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Jordan and is committed to supporting both refugees and Jordanian host communities," he affirmed. This commitment was recently reinforced with an additional $98 million investment in the second phase of the Prospects Partnership, running until 2028.

This program, implemented with partners like ILO, IFC, UNHCR, UNICEF, and the World Bank, aims to improve access to quality education, decent work, water, and legal services for both refugees and the Jordanian communities that host them.

Navigating Regional Challenges
Addressing the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Ambassador Verweij conveyed the Netherlands' deep concern regarding the violence and humanitarian crisis. "NL deplores the resumption of hostilities and urges all parties to return to the ceasefire deal and to continue negotiations," he stated, emphasizing the need for humanitarian access and condemning the blockade as contrary to international law.

The Netherlands consistently calls for the protection of civilians and respect for international humanitarian law, remaining committed to a lasting two-state solution supported by both parties.

The interview concluded with Ambassador Verweij reaffirming the strength and multifaceted nature of the Dutch-Jordanian partnership, a relationship poised to continue fostering stability, promoting development, and addressing shared challenges in the years to come.

//Petra// AA

27/04/2025 11:12:46