His Majesty King Abdullah on Saturday launched the 2013 Jordan-U.S. Business Forum, a gathering of key private and public sector leaders to enhance partnerships and explore and seize business opportunities in Jordan and the region.

King Abdullah said in an opening address that the region is going through a critical moment of turmoil that makes it incumbent upon economic decision-makers to define their options and explore opportunities to achieve much-needed growth, which adds to the importance and urgency of “smart choices” on where to invest, who to partner with, and where to set up technology centres or support offices. Jordan, he said, is one such “smart choice,” thanks to its location, workforce, regulatory environment, free trade and open economy.

King Abdullah said Jordan appreciates the pivotal role of the private sector and global partners in addressing the challenges of achieving economic security and overall economic growth and creating jobs.

“I am especially concerned about creating jobs for young Jordanians. They are the majority of our population, they are talented, they are skilled, and they want and deserve to fulfill their potential,” the King said.

His Majesty expressed pride “Jordan's pluralistic, consensual and peaceful model of democratic evolution. It’s the Jordan way, aimed at ensuring transparency and good governance, along with our pluralism, openness, tolerance and moderation.” He told the forum that the Jordanian model aims to achieve equal opportunity for all, protect civil liberties and political rights, enhance the separation of powers and encourage political participation.

During the three-day forum, around 100 US companies operating in commerce, information technology, energy and health services along with a large number of local firms, will explore joint opportunities.

The first Jordanian-U.S. Business Forum was held in May 2011 to build on the accomplishments achieved since the signing of the Jordan-US Free Trade Agreement.