PM Modi, King Abdullah II discuss expanding India-Jordan ties in countering radicalisation

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday discussed with King Abdullah II of Jordan ways to expand India’s bilateral cooperation with the West Asian nation in countering radicalisation and terrorism

Modi arrived in Amman earlier in the day. He was received by Jordanian Prime Minister Jafar Hassan of Jordan at the airport and accorded a ceremonial welcome.

This is the first bilateral visit to Jordan by a Prime Minister of India in 37 years, and it coincided with the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

“I am sure this visit will boost bilateral linkages between our nations,” Modi posted on X after arriving in Amman,

He lauded King Abdulla II for Jordan’s strong commitment to the fight against terrorism and radical extremism. The two leaders discussed ways to expand cooperation in the fight against the menaces.

The leaders also discussed ways to further deepen engagement between the two countries in the fields of trade and investment, defence and security, renewable energy, fertiliser and agriculture, innovation, IT and digital technologies, critical minerals, infrastructure, health and pharmaceuticals, education and capacity, tourism and heritage.

Noting that India was Jordan’s third-largest trading partner, the prime minister proposed that the two countries aim to enhance bilateral trade to $5 billion over the next five years.

He also called for collaboration between Jordan’s digital payment system and India’s United Payments Interface (UPI). Jordan is a significant supplier of fertiliser to India, and companies on both sides are in discussions for further substantial investment in Jordan to meet the growing demand for phosphatic fertiliser in India, the Ministry of External Affairs stated.

Modi and Abdullah II shared perspectives on the developments in the region and on other global issues. They reiterated the importance of restoring peace and stability in the region.

The prime minister reaffirmed India’s support for efforts being made to achieve a durable peace in the region.

The two sides finalised MoUs in the fields of culture, renewable energy, water management, digital public infrastructure and twinning arrangement between Petra and Ellora.

Modi will also visit Ethiopia and Oman over the next two days before returning to New Delhi.