Better living standards for Jordanians top priority— King

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday reiterated that serving Jordanians and improving their living conditions is the top priority.

At a meeting with Lower House’s Watan (homeland) bloc members, His Majesty also underlined enhancing political life and achieving economic development as other key priorities.

Discussions also covered the importance of focusing on the need to surmount challenges related to education, agriculture and industry sectors, along with ways to stimulate economic growth, according to a Royal Court statement.

The meeting is the second held with members of parliamentary blocs this month. 

His Majesty reiterated the need for legislators and the government to synchronise efforts, while MPs continue overseeing the government’s performance and perform the legislative aspect of their job.

Having in place workable plans for reform would ensure more harmony between the legislative and executive powers, according to the King.

On the quality of government services offered to the public, King Abdullah pinpointed the e-government scheme as a step towards easing red tape procedures for both citizens and investors.

Regional issues were also on the meeting’s agenda, with focus on the impact of crises in the neighbourhood on Jordan’s economy. 

Head of the 14-member Watan bloc, Ramadan Huneiti, voiced support for His Majesty’s vision for political reform, based on the emergence of strong political parties that work on the basis of platforms and clear plans, adding that well-established parties are more capable of addressing the grassroots and communicating their programmes and plans to ordinary citizens.

Other members of the bloc took turn to present their viewpoints on the issues discussed, with all voicing agreement with the King’s “moderate and prudent” policy of dealing with regional issues and his relentless efforts to advocate of the rights of Palestinian people. 

Highlighting achievements Jordan has accomplished, they renewed support for the fight against corruption and for enrooting the rule of law.