King Abdullah II of Jordan
paid a working visit to France on September 17 and 18 during
which he met with French President Francois Hollande.
The king and Hollande discussed Jordanian-French ties, as
well as the latest regional and international developments.
Abdullah II also met with a number of French officials as
well as influential economic, religious and intellectual
figures.
The king voiced support for the concerted international
efforts to combat the threat that terrorist organizations and
radical groups pose to regional and global security, during a
meeting with Hollande in Paris on Thursday, according to a
statement.
On this occasion, both leaders expressed their attachment
to the strong and friendly bilateral ties binding the Kingdom of
Jordan and France.
They emphasized their commitment to enhancing cooperation
between the two countries on bilateral and multilateral issues
of common concern even further.
President Hollande and King Abdullah II stressed the mutual
economic and social benefit of continued cooperation between the
public and private sectors of both countries.
They welcomed the signature during the visit of several
agreements and Memoranda of Understanding as positive steps,
deepening the strategic bilateral relationship in key sectors
such as sustainable economic and local development (in
particular in Aqaba), water sustainability, renewable energy and
the media.
In this sector, a MoU between the Jordan Radio and
Television Corporation and France Media Monde will allow the
broadcasting in Jordan of France 24, RFI and Monte Carlo
Doualiya programmes.
Aqaba had its share of attention during the royal visit as
the area was represented by Aqaba Special Economic Zone
Authority Authority (ASEZA) Chief Commissioner Professor Kamel
Mahadin.
Dr. Mahadin, being member of the Jordanian delegation,
noted that: "under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah
II, Jordan has developed a fine business investment environment
that has resulted in many billions of dollars being attracted to
projects in Aqaba".
Mahadin also highlighted King Abdullah II's role in
promoting Jordan and positioning it on the international arena.
The success Aqaba is witnessing today is part of the king's
vision, he said.
This vision strives to transform Aqaba into a world class
business hub and leisure destination.
He noted that the Zone's strategic location, attractive
business environment and world class multi-modal transportation
network make ideal it for French investors wishing to expand to
the Middle East.
Professor Mahadin added that: "we look forward to
developing means of cooperation with the French side through the
establishment of business centers in Aqaba that facilitate the
presence and activities of French business".
Mahadin said other areas of cooperation are under
consideration, such as building business parks in Aqaba.
Mahadin, representing the Aqaba Development Corporation,
signed a MoU with CMA CGM for the purpose of setting up a
project that will include the construction and operation of a
logistic services yard as a hub for CMA CGM containers.
Jean-Philippe Thenoz, Senior Vice President/Group Agencies
Network, expressed his appreciation of King Abdullah II for
meeting French business figures, reflecting the strong
historical ties that Jordan and France have.
He also noted that: "Jordan has successfully attracted
French investments and has become a trade and logistics-services
hub serving the Middle East".
Aqaba is experiencing major developments in all sectors as
the zone witnesses the implementation of a comprehensive ports
development strategy, coupled with the development of
multi-billion dollar projects.
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