India and Jordan Boost Ties: Focus on Trade, Culture, and Diplomacy

A senior Indian official, Neena Malhotra, recently concluded a significant visit to Jordan, reinforcing the strong bilateral relationship between the two nations. During her engagements on October 13th, Malhotra met with key Jordanian foreign ministry officials, including Secretary General Daifallah Ali Al-Fayez and Ambassador Mohammed Abu Wendi. This high-level interaction underscores the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Jordan and signals a renewed commitment to deepening cooperation across a spectrum of sectors. The discussions encompassed political, economic, trade, defense, and cultural ties, as well as people-to-people exchanges. Both nations expressed satisfaction with their enduring friendship and pledged to further enhance their partnership. Regional and global issues, particularly the situation in West Asia, were also deliberated upon, with a shared emphasis on dialogue, diplomacy, and peaceful conflict resolution. Plans are underway for the next round of Foreign Office Consultations to be held in New Delhi next year. The visit also provided an opportunity for Secretary Malhotra to engage with the Indian diaspora, business leaders, academics, and cultural representatives in Jordan, highlighting their valuable contributions to strengthening India-Jordan linkages. Further discussions are slated regarding a Twinship Agreement between Agra and Petra, building on previous consultations held in April that reviewed bilateral ties and identified avenues for enhanced cooperation in political-security, economic, developmental, and people-to-people domains. India and Jordan are also planning a series of events to commemorate their 75 years of diplomatic relations. The Indian side expressed gratitude for Jordan’s solidarity following a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir. Trade between the two countries has seen substantial growth, with India now being Jordan’s fourth-largest trading partner, achieving USD 2.8 billion in bilateral trade during 2023-24. Both nations are committed to diversifying economic cooperation and promoting mutual investments. The visit also included a tour of the India-Jordan Centre of Excellence in IT at Al-Hussein Technical University, a testament to India’s developmental assistance.