Aqaba hosts national blue economy conference

AMMAN — The national blue economy conference, organised by the Business Development Center (BDC) in collaboration with the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA), kicked off in Aqaba on Monday.

Deputising for President the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) Nayef Fayez, ASEZA Commissioner of Environment Ayman Suleiman emphasised the authority’s commitment to intertwining community development with resource sustainability to keep pace with economic transformations, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.  

He also highlighted the significance of the blue economy, targeting oceans and seas for economic, tourism, and food resources. Suleiman also referred to ASEZA's vision to expand into new areas, offering job opportunities for youth after being engaged in training programmes leading to employment.

Mohammad Shamaileh, director of entrepreneurial programs at BDC, underscored the centre's commitment to business development and empowering youth in employment and entrepreneurship. 

Shamaileh outlined the BDC's strategic initiatives, emphasising self-employment and support for SMEs in leadership and creativity fields, adding that the BDC has positively impacted 1.5 million young individuals, with around 150,000 people benefiting from its programmes across the Kingdom.

He also stressed the importance of developing the blue economy as a driver for growth and sustainability in the region, referring to joint efforts with stakeholders to support projects and stimulate investments in this important sector.

The two-day conference will be discussing issues related to achieving balance between economic development and maintaining marine environment, discovering challenges and opportunities of the economy in the region, enhancing the sustainable development, and realising success in the blue economy.