King urges closer coordination between government, Parliament

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Monday urged stepping up coordination and cooperation among all state institutions, especially between the government and Parliament.

Chairing part of a Cabinet meeting during a visit to the Prime Ministry, King Abdullah stressed the importance of public outreach and listening to citizens’ concerns in all governorates, noting that the success of any minister or ministry is defined by their outreach to the public and their presence in the field, according to a Royal Court statement. 

His Majesty underscored the need to continue administrative reforms in order to improve the quality of services provided to the public, enhance cooperation and information exchange between institutions, and facilitate investments, while continuing to automate services, reaffirming the importance of continuing the process of advancing the state as it enters its second centennial.

The King pointed to opportunities that Jordan can capitalise on this year to address the economic situation, and counter poverty and unemployment, noting the need for public-private partnerships in that regard, the statement said.

Discussing safely reopening schools and other sectors, His Majesty emphasised the need to maintain safety precautions and mask-wearing to prevent an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases, noting that continuous testing and monitoring helps control the epidemiological situation.

The King also stressed the importance of vocational training in unlocking opportunities for Jordanians, and called for developing infrastructure and focusing on domestic tourism, in line with public safety measures, according to the statement.

During the meeting, His Majesty followed up with a number of ministers on the projects undertaken by their ministries.

For his part, Prime Minister Bisher Khasawneh affirmed the Cabinet’s commitment to Royal directives on fieldwork, asserting that the government is working in coordination with various state institutions, foremost of which are the House of Representatives and the Senate, the statement said.

Prime Minister Khasawneh highlighted measures taken by the government, which contributed to raising the capacity of hospitals by 300 per cent and flattening the epidemiological curve, noting efforts 

under way to reopen sectors, including schools.

Addressing the commitment to present an action plan to His Majesty within the government’s first 100 days, he said the government has prepared an executive programme, which includes an economic plan and would require cooperation with Parliament and the private sector.

Moreover, a number of ministers briefed the King on the programmes and projects undertaken by their ministries.