The Jordanian model for stability, economic development

It is noteworthy that, in his opening address to the 17th World Economic Forum (WEF) on the Middle East and North Africa, held on Saturday at the Dead Sea, His Majesty King Abdullah made the youth of Jordan, women and men, the centrepiece of his speech to the meeting.

When the King told the some 1,000 participants from about 50 countries, among whom were world leaders, businesspeople and representatives of civil society and academia from the region and beyond, that “our young people are globally connected, tech savvy, fluent in multiple languages and determined to succeed. They are proven assets to every enterprise”, the King must have chosen his words very carefully to convey a clear message about the Jordanian model for stability, progress and economic development.

Lest there is any doubt about where women stand in this equation, the King told his audience that “women are a critical part of our economic future”. So when the King referred to the young people of Jordan, he meant women and men alike, as, indeed, the pioneering spirit and stamina of women permeates all aspects of the country’s multifaceted developments.

The King also highlighted the fact that renewable energy accounts for one-fifth of the needed energy in the country, which is in keeping with the UN Sustainable Developments Goals, and the Kingdom’s dependence on renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, is projected to increase in the future.

His Majesty paid special attention to the tourism industry as a fine example of spectacular growth in the country.

UN Secretary General António Guterres, who was also among the key participants, praised Jordan’s model for reform and progress when he said that the country is a pillar of regional stability. One can add that Jordan is a pillar for human rights, democracy and rule of law in the region.

The WEF was off to a good and promising start as more speakers took to the floor to share their comments and observations about their vision for the MENA region. The 17th WEF is projected to go down in history as a pivotal launching pad for progressive and enlightened ideas to make the countries of the MENA region more stable and developed.