In a significant boost to bilateral ties, India and Jordan have inked a series of crucial agreements during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day official visit to the kingdom, which commenced on Monday. The Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) span vital sectors like renewable energy, water conservation, digital innovation, and cultural preservation, marking a new chapter in the strategic partnership.
Key Agreements Forging a Stronger Partnership
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released a detailed list of outcomes from the high-level talks. The cornerstone of the collaboration is technical cooperation in new and renewable energy, aligning with global climate goals. In a major development, Jordan expressed its intent to join key Indian-led global initiatives, including the International Solar Alliance (ISA), the Global Biofuel Alliance, and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.
Beyond energy, the two nations agreed to collaborate on water resources management and development, a critical area for the water-scarce region. On the cultural front, a unique twinning agreement was signed between the iconic heritage sites of Petra in Jordan and Ellora in India. Furthermore, the Cultural Exchange Programme was renewed for the period 2025-2029.
Digital Transformation and an Eight-Point Vision
A letter of intent was also signed for sharing successful digital solutions implemented at population scale, aiming to accelerate Jordan's digital transformation journey using India's technological expertise. India announced its support for the India-Jordan Centre of Excellence at Amman's Al Hussein Technical University, which includes training 10 Master Trainers over three years.
Following a "productive discussion" with King Abdullah II, Prime Minister Modi outlined an eight-point vision to deepen future cooperation. This roadmap focuses on:
- Trade and economy
- Fertilisers and agriculture
- Information Technology
- Healthcare
- Infrastructure
- Critical and strategic minerals
- Civil nuclear cooperation
- People-to-people ties
"Our cooperation in new and renewable energy reflects a shared commitment to clean growth, energy security and climate responsibility," PM Modi stated in a post on social media platform X, summarising the outcomes.
A Visit Underlining Strategic Warmth
The visit underscored the warmth in bilateral relations, with King Abdullah II hosting a banquet dinner in honour of the Prime Minister. PM Modi's trip to Jordan forms the first leg of his three-nation tour, which will subsequently take him to Ethiopia and Oman. The agreements signal a meaningful and practical expansion of the India-Jordan partnership, with a clear focus on sustainable development and shared prosperity.
