Irbid, Oct. 7 (Petra) – An EU-funded project to support sustainable cultural heritage and protect the Abila archaeological site was launched in Irbid on Tuesday, implemented by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) in cooperation with the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and the Department of Antiquities.

The project aims to restore archaeological landmarks, improve site infrastructure, and strengthen Abila’s role within Jordan’s national tourism trail.

Secretary-General of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities Yazan Alkhadiri, who attended the launch on behalf of the minister, said the initiative reflects Jordan’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage as a cornerstone of national identity and sustainable development.

He stressed that protecting heritage is an investment in the future that boosts cultural tourism and creates economic opportunities for local communities, particularly youth and women.

Alkhadiri noted that the project places local communities at the heart of development by involving them in maintenance, restoration, and tourism promotion activities, commending the EU and AICS for their continued support in safeguarding Jordan’s heritage.

Patrick Lambrechts, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation in Jordan, said the EU has allocated EUR10 million to support Jordan’s cultural heritage, adding that launching the projects in Abila and Machaerus demonstrates strong cooperation with the Jordanian government to achieve sustainable local and tourism development.

Ana Pires, Head of the Middle East Unit at the European Commission, affirmed that supporting Jordan’s cultural heritage is among the EU’s top priorities, emphasizing that engaging local communities transforms archaeological sites into sources of pride, belonging, and economic opportunity.

The event featured a detailed presentation on the project’s objectives and components, which include excavation, preservation, and promotion at local and international levels, as well as training and awareness programs linking schools, universities, and civil society to heritage preservation.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, attendees toured the site and were briefed on its history and cultural significance within Jordan’s rich archaeological landscape.

The project, signed in June 2024, is funded by the EU through a EUR5 million grant to support conservation, tourism promotion, and training initiatives at the Abila site.

//Petra// AO

07/10/2025 15:54:30