Precautionary measure

With proponents and opponents to the planned nuclear plants still at loggerheads over the safety, economic viability and environmental effects of such an undertaking, it is also time to consider the financial implications should the planned construction of the projected two plants is halted for one reason or another.

Israel may voice opposition to the construction of a nuclear plant even if for peaceful purposes. 

Our authorities have already signalled that Israel opposes the construction of nuclear plants on Jordanian soil. 

And it might not be Israel alone that views the construction of a nuclear plant close to its borders as a security threat. Syria and Iraq may also express concern about the safety implications of a nuclear plant so close to their borders.

The problem does not stop there.

Assuming that Jordan finds itself in default of its contract obligations with the company that is chosen to construct the plants, it may face the prospect of paying penalties that could reach hundreds of millions of dollars.

The casino project should be kept in mind at all times, since its cancellation at the last minute meant the payment of hefty damages.

These fears could be ill conceived or exaggerated, but it would be a folly not to take them into consideration at all.

No one wants a repeat of the casino debacle and taking precautionary measures is the right thing to do.