Amidst rapid international transformations, Jordanian-Chinese relations stand out as a distinguished model of robust bilateral ties built on mutual respect, shared interests, and a forward-looking vision. The visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Jordan tomorrow presents a significant opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations and intensify political and economic coordination, reflecting the evolution of these relations into a strategic partnership through which the leadership of both countries seeks to broaden the horizons of cooperation and serve the interests of their friendly peoples.
اضافة اعلان
His Majesty King Abdullah II has affirmed on numerous occasions that Jordan and China are bound by strong and enduring relations, emphasizing the importance of continued coordination and consultation between the two countries on regional and international issues, strengthening the strategic partnership, and developing cooperative relations in the political, economic, trade, tourism, development, educational, and cultural fields. This steadfast political stance reflects the depth of mutual trust and convergence of views on numerous regional and global issues, most notably the Palestinian cause, peace in the Middle East, and combating terrorism, which threatens regional and global security.
On the economic front, trade between Jordan and China has witnessed remarkable growth, reaching approximately $5.37 billion, making China one of Jordan's most prominent trading partners. This cooperation encompasses diverse sectors such as energy, infrastructure, industry, communications, and investment. Chinese investments have also contributed to supporting development projects within the Kingdom, aligning with Jordan's priorities of achieving sustainable development and creating job opportunities.
Jordanian-Chinese relations gain further significance within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative launched by Chinese President Xi Jinping, which aims to revive the historic Silk Road by land and sea. Jordan occupies a strategically important position in this initiative, serving as a pivotal point connecting the East and West, and the North and South, thus reinforcing its role as a logistical and commercial hub in the region. From this perspective, the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on the joint construction of the Belt and Road Initiative in Amman on November 29, 2023, between the Jordanian and Chinese governments, represented by His Excellency the Chinese Ambassador to Jordan, Mr. Chen Chuandong, and Her Excellency the Minister of Planning and International Cooperation, Ms. Zeina Toukan, underscores the two countries' commitment to deepening economic and developmental cooperation and opening broader horizons for future partnership.
Cooperation between Jordan and China is not limited to political and economic aspects alone, but extends to cultural and educational exchange, which constitutes a fundamental pillar for strengthening understanding between the two peoples. In this context, the growing interest in teaching the Chinese language in Jordanian schools stands out as one of the fruits of the growing relations between the two countries. Chinese has begun to find its way into the Jordanian education system, through public and private schools, as well as universities and institutes, in response to the increasing need for personnel proficient in the Chinese language and understanding of Chinese culture, in light of expanding economic, tourism, and investment relations.
Introducing Chinese into schools is a significant strategic step, contributing to the development of a Jordanian generation capable of engaging with one of the world's largest civilizations and economies. Learning Chinese also opens new horizons for Jordanian students, both in terms of study opportunities and university scholarships in China, and future employment prospects in companies and institutions that operate within the Chinese market. Beyond its practical benefits, teaching Chinese fosters cultural exchange, reinforces the values of openness and pluralism, and promotes understanding others from a civilizational and humanistic perspective.
The Jordanian-Chinese relationship, with its deep historical foundation, political understanding, economic integration, and cultural exchange, confidently looks forward to broader and more expansive horizons in the future, particularly in a world witnessing a rapidly shifting balance of power and the emergence of a multipolar international system in which China plays a pivotal role. The strength of the political and economic ties between the two countries provides a solid foundation for enhancing cooperation in investment, energy, infrastructure, and sustainable development, serving mutual interests. This cooperation is also in line with China’s growing role as a major power seeking to promote international peace and security, consolidate the principles of fair international governance, and support the comprehensive development of all the world’s peoples, which opens up broader opportunities for Jordan and China for an effective and sustainable strategic partnership.
