His Majesty King Abdullah on Tuesday launched a plan to establish an economic development zone in Irbid, in a bid to alleviate poverty and unemployment in the northern governorate.

King Abdullah said the zone, which will be constructed over 3,195 dunums, close to the Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST), is designed to improve the living standards of citizens and reduce unemployment in the governorate.

The King added the zone will build partnerships between JUST students and future companies in the area to utilize the capabilities of the younger generation.

King Abdullah also said the zone will be a hub for economic and scientific activities, hoping that the project would improve living conditions in the governorate.

An Irbid Development Company will be created to manage the zone. King Abdullah allocated part of the company's shares to aid underprivileged students.

The Jordan Times