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KOSPO-Jordan conducts 'Ramadan Food Packages Donation' ceremony at Qatarnah District

Apr 03,2024 - Last updated at Apr 05,2024

Korea Southern Power Co. Ltd. KOSPO-Jordan donated on Tuesday food parcels containing daily necessities to local Qatranah charities during the holy month of Ramadan.

KOSPO-Jordan, which is owned by the South Korean government and is the managing company of AlQatranah power plant in Jordan, conducted the donation ceremony of distributing packages to families in need at the Qatarneh District. 

Korean and Jordanian employees, Administrator of the Qatranah District Asaad Al-Lasasma, the South Gate Charitable Society, and the Sons of the Station Charitable Society had participated in the donation, which was nearly twice more of food parcels compared to last year.

“Donating to those in need in the local community of the power plant during Ramadan is a respect for Ramadan values, and this year all our employees participated voluntarily, making the donation even more meaningful. KOSPO-Jordan will continue to do so in the future." CEO Gyeong Sam Kim said.

He added “We will lead KOSPO-Jordan a model foreign company that works to improve Jordan’s environment, foster future local talent, continue volunteering for people in need, and integrate with Jordanian culture.”

Governor of the Qatranah District Asaad Al-Lasasma, expressed his thanks to KOSPO-Jordan, and specifically to the company’s employees, saying: “I would like to extend my thanks to the employees who chose to contribute to their company’s donations, which indicates great harmony with the company’s management in its orientation towards supporting the local community".

KOSPO-Jordan offered many other donation programmes in the past year, including donations of scientific equipment for science labs in schools near the power plant, aiming to help Jordanian students achieve their dreams of becoming scientists and engineers. 

It also provided smart Korean devices for learning Braille, which were manufactured using the latest Korean technology, for schools for the visually impaired, in addition to the "Green Academy" continuing education programme in cooperation with Mu'tah University in Karak aiming to develop distinguished talents in technical fields and provide job opportunities for university students.

In 2021, the company also participated in the Green Jordan Project, where it planted 3,000 trees in the area surrounding the power plant, which it waters and cares for as one of the various volunteer activities in which it is interested in participating.

BCI Jordan Sells Defence Subsidiary to Masdar to Focus on Retail and IoT Expansion

Apr 02,2024 - Last updated at Apr 02,2024

BCI Jordan has announced the sale of its public safety and defense subsidiary, BCI Defence, to Masdar, an investor in communication security and network solutions. This move signifies a strategic shift for BCI Jordan, underlining its intent to concentrate on expanding its retail and Internet of Things (IoT) sectors.

Since its inception in 2002, BCI Defence has played a pivotal role in the development of the technology sector in Jordan, particularly in public safety and defense. Its acquisition by Masdar, an investor in cybersecurity and communication infrastructure, promises to propel BCI Defence to new heights while enabling BCI Jordan to center efforts and resources toward growth areas in retail distribution and IoT solutions.

Labeeb Baransi, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors at BCI and LMSA Engineering, shared insights on the strategic shift, stating, "Selling BCI Defence allows us to focus our resources on expanding our presence in the retail market and the burgeoning field of mobile devices, IoT technologies, and Smart devices in Jordan. This move aligns with our strategy to drive growth and serve our customers more effectively." 

Additionally, the sale will allow LMSA Engineering to focus on providing clean energy solutions in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

This sale marks a significant step in BCI Jordan's strategy to adapt and thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, emphasizing areas where the company sees substantial growth potential. The decision to sell BCI Defence reflects BCI Jordan's commitment to optimizing its portfolio to better meet the demands of its target markets.

Masdar's Chairman, Abdul Majid Qassem, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition, noting the strategic fit between BCI Defence’s capabilities and Masdar’s mission. He stated, "Acquiring BCI Defence enables us to offer best-in-breed services and solutions to tackle the ever-increasing threats facing digital infrastructures today. We are excited about the possibilities this investment offers."

With this strategic sale, BCI Jordan is poised to focus on leveraging its strengths in the retail and technology sectors, pursuing new opportunities for innovation and growth. The move underscores BCI Jordan's dedication to refining its business focus, aiming to achieve superior customer satisfaction and a stronger market position in the digital age.

Jordan's Cryptocurrency Landscape: An Evolving Regulatory Framework

Mar 28,2024 - Last updated at Apr 16,2024

As we navigate through the complex and dynamic world of digital finance, Jordan presents an intriguing case study in the Middle East's approach to cryptocurrency regulation. This article delves into the current legal standing, the challenges, and the progressive steps Jordan is undertaking to harmonize innovation with regulatory frameworks.

The Legal Status of Cryptocurrency in Jordan

Jordan's stance on cryptocurrencies has been traditionally cautious, mirroring the global uncertainty surrounding these digital assets. The Central Bank of Jordan (CBJ) has prohibited financial institutions within the nation from dealing in cryptocurrencies, including activities such as trading, investing, gambling in Arabic casinos and facilitating transactions in digital currencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others.

The Central Bank's Warnings and Restrictions

The CBJ has issued multiple warnings to the public regarding the risks associated with cryptocurrency trading. These advisories highlight several concerns, including the volatility of digital currencies, the potential for financial crimes such as hacking, and the absence of consumer protection measures for investors. The Bank emphasizes that cryptocurrencies do not hold legal tender status in Jordan, underscoring the absence of any obligation by central banks or governments worldwide to exchange cryptocurrencies for real money.

Evolving Legal Framework and Recognition of Digital Assets

Despite the initial restrictive measures, Jordan is adapting its legislative environment to accommodate the growing global adoption of digital currencies. Efforts are being made to legally recognize cryptocurrencies as a form of digital asset, thereby integrating them into Jordan's financial regulatory framework. This move aims to establish a solid foundation for targeted regulatory measures, including taxation, compliance, and investor protection .

Consumer Protection and Regulatory Compliance

In alignment with its evolving regulatory stance, Jordan has implemented strict regulations for cryptocurrency exchanges and wallet providers, mandating high standards of security and transparency. These entities must register with financial regulatory authorities to operate, ensuring a secure environment for cryptocurrency transactions .

Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF) Measures

Jordan has also introduced comprehensive AML and CTF protocols for all cryptocurrency service providers. This includes conducting thorough Know Your Customer (KYC) processes and reporting suspicious transactions, pivotal in preventing the misuse of digital currencies for illicit activities.

Continued Use Despite Restrictions

In spite of the Central Bank's advisories, there's evidence of continued interest and use of cryptocurrencies among individuals and businesses in Jordan. Bitcoin remains the most prominent digital currency, with others like Ethereum and Litecoin also gaining traction.

Conclusion

Jordan's approach to cryptocurrency regulation is indicative of a broader regional trend towards embracing digital finance innovations while ensuring financial security and consumer protection. The country's evolving legal framework represents a significant step towards accommodating the benefits of cryptocurrencies, highlighting a balance between innovation and regulation. As Jordan continues to refine its policies, it sets a precedent for other nations navigating the complexities of digital finance regulation.

Empowering local communities : InterContinental Hotels Group in Jordan Provides Ramadan food packages

Mar 27,2024 - Last updated at Mar 27,2024

AMMAN — As the holy month of Ramadan continues, The InterContinental Hotels Group in Jordan reaffirms its commitment to supporting those in need within our local community alongside with Tkiyet Um Ali.
 
Through a dedicated initiative in between InterContinental Jordan, InterContinental Aqaba Resort, Crowne Plaza Amman Hotel, Crowne Plaza Jordan Dead Sea Resort & Spa, Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea and Petra Guest House Hotel, a distribution of Ramadan food packages to underprivileged families, ensuring they have nourishing meals to break their fasts during this sacred time.
 
The spirit of Ramadan is one of compassion, generosity, and unity.
 
Recognizing the challenges faced by many families, especially during these trying times, our hotels aim to alleviate some of the burdens by providing essential food supplies throughout the month.
 
Through the support of volunteers from the IHG Hotels in Jordan and Tikyet Um Ali, the team has assembled nutritious food packages that include staples such as rice, lentils, dates, cooking oil, flour, and other essential items.
 
These packages have been carefully curated to provide sustenance and nourishment to families throughout the month.
 
This initiative is part of The InterContinental Hotels Group in Jordan to support vulnerable individuals and families, promoting inclusivity and compassion within our community.
 
Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.

H.E. Sheikha Adana Nasser Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah appointed Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Jordan Kuwait Bank

Mar 06,2024 - Last updated at Mar 06,2024

The Board of Directors of Jordan Kuwait Bank, in its meeting on March 4th, 2024, resolved to appoint H.E. Sheikha Adana Nasser Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah as Chairperson of the Board, along with Dr. Marwan Al-Muasher as Vice-Chairman, effective immediately.

Sheikha Adana thanked the Board for their trust, highlighting her pride in her appointment and commending the achievements of Jordan Kuwait Bank, particularly in 2023.

She also noted that she anticipates ongoing collaboration between the Board and Executive Management to drive further progress and success, highlighting the pivotal role of the Bank's CEO in these accomplishments.

Sheikha Adana Nasser Al-Sabah brings extensive leadership experience, having served on the Board of Directors of Kuwait Projects Company Holding (KIPCO) since 2020 and as CEO since 2022.

She is also a founding partner and Chair of the Board of Trustees of the American University in Kuwait, Chair of the Board of Directors of United Education Company, and Chair of Panther Media (OSN). Additionally, she serves on the boards of Gulf Insurance Group and Kamco Invest - Kuwait.

She holds a bachelor's degree in English literature from Kuwait University and an honorary doctorate in Humane Letters from Dartmouth University, USA. She has been featured in Forbes Middle East's list of the 100 most powerful businesswomen for 2024.

Meanwhile, Dr. Marwan Muasher holds a doctorate in computer engineering from Purdue University, USA.

He has held several ministerial positions in Jordan, including Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Minister of Information. He has also served in the Jordanian Senate and as a Senior Vice President of External Affairs at the World Bank from 2007 to 2010.

Currently, he is Vice President of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and sits on the boards of various local and international companies, banks, and institutions.

It is worth noting that KIPCO is a prominent and diversified holding company in the Middle East and North Africa, managing assets exceeding $33 billion. It has significant ownership stakes in over 60 companies across 24 countries, with main activities spanning financial services, media, real estate, industry, and education. 

KIPCO is also a major shareholder in Al Rawabi United Holding Company, which holds 51% of Jordan Kuwait Bank's capital, and in Burgan Bank Group - Kuwait, which operates banks in Turkey, Algeria, Tunisia, and Bahrain.

 

Bekanntmachung fur Deutsche zur Wahl zum Europaischen Parlament

Mar 04,2024 - Last updated at Mar 04,2024

Am 09. Juni 2024 findet die Wahl der Abgeordneten des Europäischen Parlaments aus der Bundesrepublik Deutschland statt.

Deutsche, die außerhalb der Bundesrepublik Deutschland leben, das 16. Lebensjahr vollendet haben und im Bundesgebiet keine Wohnung mehr innehaben, können bei Vorliegen der sonstigen wahlrechtlichen Voraussetzungen an der Wahl teilnehmen. Für ihre Wahlteilnahme ist u. a. Voraussetzung, dass sie

1.1 am Wahltag seit mindestens drei Monaten in den übrigen Mitgliedstaaten der Europäischen Union eine Wohnung innehaben oder sich mindestens seit dieser Zeit dort gewöhnlich aufhalten (auf die Dreimonatsfrist wird ein unmittelbar vorausgehender Aufenthalt in der Bundesrepublik Deutschland angerechnet)

oder

1.2 entweder nach Vollendung ihres 14. Lebensjahres mindestens drei Monate ununterbrochen in der Bundesrepublik Deutschland eine Wohnung innegehabt oder sich sonst gewöhnlich aufgehalten haben und dieser Aufenthalt nicht länger als 25 Jahre zurückliegt, oder aus anderen Gründen persönlich und unmittelbar Vertrautheit mit den politischen Verhältnissen in der Bundesrepublik Deutschland erworben haben und von ihnen betroffen sind,

2. in ein Wählerverzeichnis in der Bundesrepublik Deutschland eingetragen sind. Diese Eintragung erfolgt nur auf Antrag. Der Antrag ist auf einem Formblatt zu stellen; er soll bald nach dieser Bekanntmachung abgesandt werden.

Einem Antrag, der erst am 19. Mai 2024 oder später bei der zuständigen Gemeindebehörde eingeht, kann nicht mehr entsprochen werden (§ 17 Abs. 1 der Europawahlordnung).

Antragsvordrucke (Formblätter) sowie informierende Merkblätter sind online auf der Seite der Bundeswahlleiterin (www.bundeswahlleiterin.de) erhältlich. Sie können auch bei

- den diplomatischen und berufskonsularischen Vertretungen der Bundesrepublik Deutschland,

- der Bundeswahlleiterin, Statistisches Bundesamt, Zweigstelle Bonn, Postfach 17 03 77, 53029 BONN, GERMANY

- den Kreis- und Stadtwahlleitungen in der Bundesrepublik Deutschland

angefordert werden. Ausführliche Informationen entnehmen Sie bitte der Webseite der Botschaft unter www.amman.diplo.de/jo-de . Weitere Auskünfte zum Verfahren erteilt die Botschaft der Bundesrepublik Deutschland in Amman.

Botschaft der Bundesrepublik Deutschland, Amman

Benghazi Street 25, Jabal Amman

[email protected]

Jordan Kuwait Bank and IFC Join Forces to Build Capacityof SMEs in the Childcare Sector

Feb 10,2024 - Last updated at Feb 10,2024

Jordan Kuwait Bank and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, signed a joint cooperation agreement to support and build the capacity of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups in the childcare sector, by providing financing needed to sustain and grow their operations.

The agreement was signed by Khawaja Aftab Ahmed, the IFC's Regional Director for the Middle East, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, and Haethum Buttikhi, the CEO of Jordan Kuwait Bank, and was attended by representatives from both organizations.

As per the agreement, the IFC and Jordan Kuwait Bank will collaborate to increase employment opportunities for womenthrough supporting and enhancing childcare services in Jordan.

The project is a crucial component of the new Care Arabia initiative by the IFC, which aims to increase access to early childcare services throughout the Middle East, thereby boosting women's participation in the workforce.

The IFC and Jordan Kuwait Bank aim to improve the financial eligibility of 50 small and medium-sized childcare facilities, by enhancing their financial literacy, developing their business management capabilities, and facilitating communication between the bank and service providers, particularly those that seek funding.

Furthermore, the project aims to support startups in the childcare sector by establishing an "Innovation Center" that aims to facilitate various activities, including training on investment readiness and providing tailored consultancy services to enhance business models and accelerate growth.

Expressing pride in the agreement, Haethum Buttikhi, CEO of Jordan Kuwait Bank, said, "We are proud to partner with the IFC in launching this crucial program. Our commitment to supporting this sector reflects our understanding of its importance in enhancing the role of women and empowering them through increased job opportunities, which we view as one of the bank’s key goals. 

This agreement is an excellent opportunity to boost and develop the capacity of small and medium-sized businesses and startups in the field of childcare, which in turn, will contribute to boosting the national economy”.

Khawaja Aftab Ahmed, IFC's Regional Director for the Middle East, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating that, “"Access to good childcare services means access to more opportunities to grow -- not only for women but also for societies, companies, and economies as a whole. With this in mind, we are embarking on Care Arabia, a new IFC program which aims to increase women’s participation in the workforce by improving access to childcare across the Middle East, in partnership with the government of the Netherlands and the Mashreq Gender Facility, which is supported by Canada and Norway.

Today, together with JKB, who has been a great partner when it comes to sustainability initiatives, we are starting to plant the first seeds for transforming Jordan’s childcare sector, one nursery at a time.”   

Bekanntmachung fur Deutsche zur Wiederholung der Wahl zum Deutschen Bundestag in 455 Berliner Wahlbezirken

Jan 09,2024 - Last updated at Jan 09,2024

Am 11. Februar 2024 findet die Wiederholung der Wahl zum Deutschen Bundestag vom 26. September 2021 in Berlin in 455 von insgesamt 2.256 Wahlbezirken statt. Die Wiederholungswahl findet somit nicht im gesamten Berliner Stadtgebiet statt. Auf der Seite der Landeswahlleitung Berlin (www.berlin.de/wahlen/) ist eine Adressabfrage abrufbar, in der ermittelt werden kann, ob die eingegebene Berliner Anschrift in einem Wahlbezirk liegt, in dem die Wiederholungswahl stattfindet. 

Deutsche, die außerhalb der Bundesrepublik Deutschland leben und im Bundesgebiet keine Wohnung mehr innehaben, können unter den folgenden Voraussetzungen an der Wiederholungswahl teilnehmen:  

1. entweder nach Vollendung ihres 14. Lebensjahres mindestens drei Monate ununterbrochen in der Bundesrepublik Deutschland eine Wohnung innegehabt oder sich sonst gewöhnlich aufgehalten haben und dieser Aufenthalt nicht länger als 25 Jahre zurückliegt, 

oder aus anderen Gründen persönlich und unmittelbar Vertrautheit mit den politischen Verhältnissen in der Bundesrepublik Deutschland erworben haben und von ihnen betroffen sind; sowie 

 

2. Sie sind in ein Wählerverzeichnis in einem der o.g. Wahlbezirke in Berlin eingetragen. Diese Eintragung erfolgt nur auf Antrag. Der Antrag ist auf einem Formblatt zu stellen; er soll bald nach dieser Bekanntmachung abgesandt werden. Einem Antrag, der erst am 22. Januar 2024 oder später bei der zuständigen Gemeindebehörde eingeht, kann nicht mehr entsprochen werden (§ 18 Abs. 1 der Bundeswahlordnung). 

 

 Antragsvordrucke (Formblätter) sowie informierende Merkblätter sind online auf der Seite des Bundeswahlleiters (www.bundeswahlleiter.de) erhältlich. Sie können auch bei 

- dem Bundeswahlleiter, Statistisches Bundesamt, Zweigstelle Bonn, Postfach 17 03 77, 53029 BONN, GERMANY, oder per E-Mail [email protected]

- dem Landeswahlleiter für Berlin (www.berlin.de/wahlen/

- den zuständigen Bezirkswahlämtern in Berlin 

angefordert werden. Ausführliche Informationen entnehmen Sie bitte der Webseite der Botschaft unter www.amman.diplo.de . Weitere Auskünfte zum Verfahren erteilt die Botschaft der Bundesrepublik Deutschland in Amman. 

Amman, 09.01.2024 

 

                                                                                                            Botschaft der Bundesrepublik Deutschland, Amman 

                                                                                                            Benghazi Street 25, Jabal Amman 

                                                                                                            [email protected] 

 

Arab Bank Named Bank of the Year 2023 in the Middle East by The Banker Magazine



Jan 06,2024 - Last updated at Jan 06,2024

Amman — Arab Bank recognised as the “Bank of the Year” in the Middle East for 2023 by The Banker Magazine, owned by the Financial Times and based in London.

The announcement came during The Banker’s “Bank of The Year Awards 2023” ceremony, held in London, and attended by senior representatives from leading banks from all over the world. 

The Banker’s judging panel’s decision to honour Arab Bank with this regional award was based on criteria assessing a number of different indicators, including the Bank’s financials, strategy and performance, in addition to other specific indicators, a process that takes over five months to conduct.  


Commenting on this recognition, Ms. Randa Sadik, Arab Bank’s Chief Executive Officer, said that “such global recognition is a testament to the leading position Arab Bank enjoys both locally and regionally. It reflects the bank’s consistent ability to deliver solid performance despite the challenging circumstances across the region and the world.”  

She added, “The bank continues to provide a wide range of  banking solutions to its customers in line with its comprehensive strategy and its well-established institutional approach, with an ambitious, forward looking vision that keeps pace with the latest technological developments in the banking industry."



Jordan Kuwait Bank Passes its IT Systems, Services and Products’ Operational Continuity Testing in High Efficiency

Jan 06,2024 - Last updated at Jan 06,2024

Amman — Jordan Kuwait Bank (JKB) successfully tested last month, its disaster recovery plan's infrastructure, as per the Central Bank of Jordan regulations and in line with the best international practices. 

For a period of one week, the bank successfully tested its disaster recovery plan by operating all its critical and non-critical banking and non-banking systems, digital services and Information Technology infrastructure. 

This achievement in the field of business continuity and resilience supports the bank’s customers, head office and branches’ network across the kingdom; starting from its Disaster Recovery Data Centre located at Zain Bunker in King Hussein Business Park.

This step highlights the banks’ long-term efforts and investments during the past couple of years, aimed to revolutionize the IT infrastructure by establishing and operating three data centres as per the highest international standards.

Haethum Buttikhi, CEO of Jordan Kuwait Bank, stated that this achievement comes within the framework of the Bank’s commitment to comply with the regulatory authorities’ regulations and best international standard.

He added that these measures protect customers and their accounts, as well as contributing to the protection of the national economy and banking sector’s stability.

 

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