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What Jordan Offers
Jordan has been brought into the
global spotlight as a regional pioneer in political, economic, and
social development. A small nation with a population of 5.7 million,
situated in the heart of the Middle East and North Africa, despite lacking
the region’s natural resources, Jordan represents a remarkable success
story in its efforts to overcome such tough challenges. Currently
renowned for its political stability, economic development, and
progressive society, Jordan’s outstanding presence projects a promising
future.
Jordan enjoys an environment of peace and political stability. The
leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II builds on the peace that
Jordan has fostered with its neighbors in the past, guiding the nation
to becoming a key player in international cooperation.
Jordan’s image
abroad is also reflected in its political achievements at home. Jordan
is the first Arab country to establish a fully independent human rights
watchdog, women’s quota has been introduced in parliamentary elections,
and now, the voting age has been lowered from 19 to 18 years to further
engage the youth in charting the future. Jordan operates on a philosophy
that believes in building peace, democracy, and an active civil society
to drive socio-economic progress.
Jordan is also well known for its remarkable achievements in economic
development and liberalization. Jordan takes full economic advantage of
its central location in the Middle East, strategically situated on the
crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Jordan became a member of the
World Trade Organization in 2000; signed Free Trade Agreements with the
U.S., Canada, Singapore, and several European, Middle Eastern, and North
African countries; and engaged in bilateral economic agreements with
more than 70 countries around the world. This gives Jordan a unique
advantage in accessing a market of over one billion consumers, rendering
it as one of the most liberalized economies in the Middle East and North
Africa. Jordan boasts an average GDP growth rate of 6.7% in the past six
years and displays a wide array of dynamic and competitive sectors which
range from manufacturing, agriculture, to world-class services. A
combination of business-friendly laws, special economic zones,
competitive labor force, and agencies which provide high quality support
to businessmen and investors has made Jordan into vibrant and well-know
international business hub.
Jordan ’s achievements in the political and economic realms would not
have been possible without its progressive society. Jordan’s 91%
literacy rate is among the highest in the region. A very strong female
participation and a population of which 70% are under the age of 30
reflect a progressive and youthful civil society.
Accessible
education, healthcare, affordable housing, competitive wages,
thriving cultural and entertainment scenes, among other factors provide
a high standard of living for many in Jordan. The Jordanian society is
increasingly cultivating educated, skillful, and productive individuals
who are well equipped for competing in the regional and international
economy.
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