Amman [Jordan], December 14 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit to Jordan aims not only to celebrate the longstanding friendly relationship between the two countries but also to advance ties to a new level, India’s Ambassador to Jordan Manish Chauhan said on Saturday.
Speaking to ANI ahead of Modi’s first full-fledged bilateral visit to the Middle Eastern country, Chauhan noted the visit coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Jordan.
He described the timing as “very important” for both bilateral relations and the region. Modi will be in Jordan on December 15 and 16 at the invitation of King Abdullah II. Chauhan said this is the first full bilateral visit by an Indian prime minister to Jordan in this millennium; the PM’s last stop in Jordan was a transit visit in 2018.
“This is a truly historic and landmark event — perhaps the most memorable occasion when it comes to the celebration of this 75th year,” Chauhan said, adding that the visit is an opportunity to reflect on deep-rooted ties and take the partnership further.
The Prime Minister’s schedule will include high-level discussions across political, economic and cultural areas. Chauhan said the agenda is packed and seeks to accomplish much, with expectations that talks will cover the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Modi will meet King Abdullah II to review the full range of bilateral relations and exchange views on regional issues. The two leaders are also expected to address an India-Jordan business event during the visit.
The Prime Minister will interact with the Indian community in Jordan as part of his engagements.
MEA noted that India and Jordan share warm relations marked by strong leadership-level understanding. India is Jordan’s third-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade valued at about USD 2.8 billion.
In investment, around 15 Indian government companies have invested roughly USD 500 million in Jordan’s qualified industrial zones. Royal Jordanian recently launched direct flights between Amman and Mumbai and plans to expand operations to New Delhi. Jordan also provides visa-on-arrival for Indian tourists.
Modi’s Jordan visit is the first leg of a three-nation tour: he will travel next to Ethiopia for a state visit from December 16–17, followed by a visit to Oman from December 17–18, which will be his second visit to that country. (ANI)
