Amman, Sept. 11 (Petra) -- Minister of Planning and International Cooperation Zeina Toukan met with European Investment Bank (EIB) Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti and her delegation to explore ways to strengthen strategic cooperation and advance joint development efforts between Jordan and the European Union.

The discussions focused on the current portfolio of EIB-supported projects in Jordan, particularly in the water, wastewater, and private sector development sectors. Both sides also examined investment priorities under Jordan’s Economic Modernization Vision, with a focus on energy, water, education, and financial services.

Toukan emphasized the critical role the EIB plays as a key EU financial arm and trusted development partner, noting its contribution through concessional loans and technical and investment grants. These have helped finance impactful projects in areas such as healthcare, education, energy, water, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through local bank lending programs.

She also expressed appreciation for the Bank’s commitment to the National Water Carrier Project, a strategic desalination and water transfer initiative from Aqaba to Amman.

Vigliotti highlighted the positive momentum in the partnership and reaffirmed the EIB’s readiness to expand support across multiple sectors, stressing the Bank’s confidence in Jordan as a reliable partner for sustainable investment.

Also attending the meeting was Souad Farsi, Head of the EIB’s Amman Office.

Between 2014 and 2024, the EIB has committed approximately €2.25 billion to public and private sector projects in Jordan, with a strong focus on essential infrastructure, services, and private sector growth.

//Petra// WH