The Jordan-EU Investment Conference is set to take place on November 19 at the Dead Sea, aiming to foster greater economic collaboration between Jordan and the European Union. This significant event is anticipated to draw attention to the burgeoning economic ties and investment opportunities within the Hashemite Kingdom. The conference's timing is particularly pertinent, following a key cooperation agreement signed last year between Jordan and Spain, a prominent member state of the European Union. This agreement specifically linked their respective pilgrimage routes, the historic Camino de Santiago in Spain and the Camino de Egeria in Jordan, symbolizing a deeper cultural and historical connection. Beyond these recent agreements, educational ties between the two nations are long-standing and strong, with hundreds of Jordanian students having pursued studies in medicine and engineering in Spain since the 1960s, contributing to a rich history of academic exchange. Spanish companies have played a significant role in Jordan's vital renewable energy sector. Wind and solar projects, specifically, constitute approximately 60 percent of the total value of contracts secured by these Spanish firms in Jordan since 2010, noting their substantial contribution to the nation's sustainable development goals and energy independence. This extensive involvement shows the depth of the bilateral relationship, which the upcoming conference aims to further strengthen and expand.
Bilateral Cooperation Framework
Jordan and Spain are currently developing a new Partnership Framework for Cooperation designed to cover the period from 2026 to 2030. This forward-looking framework builds upon existing ties and seeks to formalize and expand the scope of their collaborative efforts across various sectors. A cornerstone of their cultural and historical connection is the Camino de Egeria, a pilgrimage route named after Egeria, a Spanish pilgrim who visited holy sites in Jordan during the fourth century AD. This ancient link provides a profound historical context for the contemporary cooperation between the two countries. Economically, the relationship is vibrant and dynamic, with more than 700 Spanish companies reportedly maintaining regular business relations with Jordanian firms. This extensive network of commercial engagement demonstrates a well-established and active trade and investment corridor between the two nations.
The upcoming Partnership Framework, meticulously crafted to guide future collaboration, will focus on four key priority areas. These strategic pillars are designed to address critical developmental needs and foster sustainable growth within Jordan. The first priority is enhancing access to quality primary healthcare, a fundamental aspect of human development and well-being. The second area focuses on promoting women's empowerment, recognizing the key role women play in economic and social progress. Expanding essential infrastructure constitutes the third priority, acknowledging the necessity of strong physical foundations for national development. Finally, fostering social cohesion within communities is the fourth key area, aiming to strengthen the fabric of Jordanian society. Jordan has been officially designated as a priority country under Spain’s International Development Cooperation Programme, showing the strategic importance of this bilateral relationship and Spain's commitment to Jordan's development. The Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) is the principal entity responsible for the implementation of Spain's International Development Cooperation Programme, which guides these collaborative efforts and ensures that the objectives of the Partnership Framework are met through targeted initiatives and funding. This designation as a priority country reinforces the long-term vision and mutual commitment shared by Jordan and Spain.
Economic Ties and Investment Potential
The economic relationship between Jordan and Spain is characterized by a consistent and substantial flow of goods and services. Spanish exports to Jordan have consistently ranged between 300 million and 400 million euros annually over the past decade, reflecting a steady and significant trade relationship. These exports encompass a wide array of products and services, contributing to various sectors of the Jordanian economy. Conversely, imports from Jordan to Spain have been valued at between 40 million and 80 million euros annually during the same period, indicating a growing, albeit smaller, reciprocal trade flow. This trade balance notes the ongoing economic interactions between the two nations and the potential for further growth and diversification in Jordanian exports to the Spanish market. The stability of these figures over a decade shows the resilience and established nature of their commercial partnership.
Beyond direct trade, Spanish companies have played a significant and multifaceted role in Jordan's infrastructure and development projects. Their expertise and investment have been key in advancing key sectors. Since 2010, Spanish consultancy and engineering firms have secured contracts in Jordan with a cumulative value exceeding 840 million euros. These substantial contracts demonstrate the depth of Spanish involvement in Jordan's economic landscape, particularly in sectors requiring specialized expertise, advanced technology, and innovative solutions. The projects undertaken by these firms span various critical areas, contributing to Jordan's modernization and development. As previously noted, within this impressive cumulative figure, renewable energy projects, including both wind and solar installations, account for approximately 60 percent of the total value of contracts secured by Spanish companies in Jordan since 2010. This focus on sustainable energy solutions aligns with global environmental goals and Jordan's strategic objectives for energy independence and reducing carbon emissions. The consistent flow of trade and investment, coupled with the strategic focus on key developmental areas, shows the established economic partnership that the upcoming Jordan-EU Investment Conference aims to further strengthen, attract new investors, and explore untapped opportunities.
Political Stance and Cultural Exchange
In the realm of international diplomacy, Spain has consistently reiterated its unwavering commitment to the implementation of the two-state solution as a pathway to lasting peace and stability in the Middle East. This principled stance aligns its diplomatic approach with the principles outlined in the New York Declaration, a significant international document that articulates a shared vision for regional stability and resolution of conflicts. This consistent position reflects Spain's dedication to a rules-based international order and its belief in diplomatic solutions to complex geopolitical challenges. The reiteration of this commitment serves to show Spain's role as a responsible international actor and its engagement in promoting peaceful resolutions in the region.
On the cultural front, the Instituto Cervantes in Amman has played a long-standing and instrumental role in fostering cultural and educational exchange between Spain and Jordan. For several decades, the institution has been actively involved in teaching and promoting the Spanish language within the Jordanian capital, becoming a vibrant hub for linguistic and cultural immersion. Its consistent presence and dedicated efforts have allowed countless Jordanians to learn Spanish, opening doors to new cultural understanding and international communication. This cultural outreach contributes significantly to fostering deeper understanding and connections between the two nations, transcending purely economic and political spheres. The institute's presence shows a sustained effort to share Spanish culture and language, thereby enriching the local educational landscape and providing invaluable opportunities for Jordanians to engage with Hispanic traditions, literature, and arts. Through its diverse programs and initiatives, the Instituto Cervantes continues to serve as a vital bridge, strengthening the bonds of friendship and mutual appreciation between the people of Jordan and Spain.
