Jordan is interested to have a key role in the reconstruction of Libya, Industry and Trade Minister Sami Gammoh told reporters on Thursday.
The Jordanian private sector can offer services and assistance in the fields of health, pharmaceuticals, food industries, education and universities, the minister said, indicating that Jordanian construction firms have the capabilities to have a key share in the Libyan market.
He added that the ministry is preparing for a delegation of officials and private sector representatives to visit the North African Arab country stressing that both Jordanian and Libyan officials are keen to involve the Kingdom's expertise in the reconstruction of Libya.
As Jordan is set to enjoy good economic ties with Libya, the strong trade links with Syria may remain unchanged even if Arab countries decide to impose sanctions against the northern neighbouring country to put pressure on Bashar Assad's regime to end the violent crackdown on protesters.
Answering a question on the impact of the expected economic sanctions against Syria on the Kingdom's economy, Gammoh said Jordan will not be obliged to implement the economic sanctions against Syria, because, according to the UN Charter, Jordan cannot be forced to take part in the sanctions if the penalties hurt the interests of the Kingdom and the people.
Around 60 per cent of Jordan's external trade is through Syria, Gammoh pointed out, describing Syria as the gateway for Jordanian products to Turkey and Europe.
"Jordan can be a bright spot in a turbulent region," he said, expressing optimimism about the performance of Jordan's economy in 2012.
A number of legislations will be implemented next year in a bid to boost the performance of the economy and enhance the business and investment environment in the country, according to Gammoh.
He concluded that although he prefers the cash transfer system, the government is still looking for a mechanism to direct subsidies next year only to vulnerable households who deserve support.
(Source: Jordan Times, Zawya)
