His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday directed the government to speed up the implementation of capital projects allocated in the state budget to Maan Governorate.

At a meeting with a number of leading figures and representatives from Maan, attended by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, King Abdullah noted that supporting productive factories in the governorate to provide job opportunities is a priority.

During the meeting, which is part of ongoing public outreach, His Majesty said there is interest in investing in Jordan—especially in mega-projects, food security, and agriculture—which will enhance economic opportunities and alleviate poverty and unemployment.

The King reiterated that the Jordan National Railway Project is a priority for the Kingdom and for Maan, citing interest in investing in the land port among Gulf Arab countries.

In addition, His Majesty stressed the need to enhance tourism activities in the governorate, and to capitalise on the museum and handicrafts centre.

Turning to reform, the King said Jordan is moving forward with political modernisation without hesitation, stressing that the draft political parties and election laws are with the House of Representatives, in parallel to serious steps toward economic and administrative reform.

His Majesty highlighted the important role of society, especially youth and women, in the upcoming period through participation in the municipal and governorate council elections.

The King also discussed the ongoing National Economic Workshop, which is organised by the Royal Hashemite Court and covers several sectors to identify national priorities and recommend a roadmap for improving quality of life and services for Jordanians.

On the northern borders, His Majesty stressed that Jordan is in an open and daily confrontation against all smuggling and infiltration attempts, stressing that the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army personnel are safeguarding the country’s borders against all threats.

For their part, the attendees expressed support for modernisation and reform efforts, stressing that combating rumours and misinformation entails moving forward with further achievements.

The attendees also highlighted a number of local community concerns and needs in Maan.

Speaking at the meeting, Deputy Prime Minister and Local Administration Minister Tawfiq Kreishan said the projects listed in the 2022 budget for Maan include the Maan-Shidiyeh road, constructing the healthcare building in Petra, expanding Maan Public Hospital, increasing classrooms in a number of schools, and revamping backroads and agricultural roads.

He said the government is also working to complete a number of projects, such as the rehabilitation of the King Abdullah I Palace, and constructing the Justice Palace in Maan, as well as a military hospital, a school for boys in Al Taybah, and the Maan Municipality building.

Royal Hashemite Court Chief Yousef Issawi highlighted a number of Royal initiatives implemented in Maan, including productive, service, healthcare, and tourism projects aimed at enhancing living conditions and complementing the government’s work.

Issawi noted the construction of 100 housing units for underprivileged families, pointing to plans to build a factory to provide 200 to 400 job opportunities.

Adviser to His Majesty for Tribal Affairs Atef Hajaya, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Maj. Gen. Yousef Hneiti, Public Security Directorate Director Maj. Gen. Hussein Hawatmeh, and Maan Governor Firas Faour attended the outreach meeting.