NATO Office in Jordan: Regional and strategic balances

The main objectives of opening a NATO office in Jordan are many and varied. Primarily, NATO aims to enhance military and security cooperation with Jordan, as Jordan is considered a strategic ally in the Middle East region. This cooperation includes providing training and technical support to the Jordanian Armed Forces, which contributes to strengthening its defence and logistical capabilities. Through this office, NATO also aims to facilitate coordination and cooperation with Jordan in the areas of counter-terrorism, cybersecurity and crisis management, which enhances regional security and stability.

Jordan can also reap many benefits from cooperation with NATO through its contribution with technical support provided by NATO in enhancing the efficiency of the Jordanian Armed Forces and its ability to deal with complex security threats. This cooperation could also lead to the transfer of advanced technology to Jordan, enhancing its defense and technical capabilities.

Cooperation with NATO also provides Jordan with the opportunity to participate in joint maneuvers, which increases the readiness of its armed forces and enhances its ability to coordinate with international forces in the event of crises or threats. The presence of the NATO office can also contribute to strengthening Jordan's position as a major player in international and regional efforts aimed at achieving security and stability.

In addition to strengthening Jordan's position through its cooperation with NATO on the international arena, which could open the door to further cooperation with NATO member states in various fields, including economics, education and technology.

However, despite the potential benefits, some challenges and concerns may arise about opening a NATO office in Jordan. Among these concerns, there may be concern about increased external interference in Jordan's internal affairs, especially regarding sovereign decisions and defense policies.

To answer this, when a state signs an agreement, it activates its sovereignty instead of detracting from it, as it demonstrates its ability to make independent sovereign decisions. These agreements reinforce the principle of interdependence in international relations, whereby participating countries have equal rights and duties. 

This interaction reflects a shared commitment to international rules and standards, promoting cooperation and global peace. Sovereignty in this context means the ability to participate effectively in the international system in a way that serves common interests.

Jordan may also face challenges in its relations with some regional countries that may see this cooperation as a threat to their interests or a new balance in regional powers. For example, some countries may object to strengthening military cooperation between Jordan and NATO for fear of its impact on the military balance in the region.

At the same time, opening a NATO office in Jordan could greatly impact regional and international relations. Internationally, this cooperation is expected to strengthen Jordan's relations with NATO member states, especially the United States and Europe, which could translate into additional political and economic support for Jordan.

On the other hand, Jordan may face some challenges in its relations with regional countries, which may oppose NATO's presence in the region. Jordan must manage these relations carefully to maintain a balance between enhancing its internal security and stability and its relations with neighbouring countries.

NATO's office in Jordan can also play a pivotal role in enhancing security and stability in the region. By providing technical and logistical support, NATO can enhance the capabilities of the Jordanian Armed Forces to confront various security threats, whether they are terrorist organisations, cyber challenges, or crises. NATO’s presence contributes to strengthening regional cooperation in the field of security and defence, which enhances the ability of these countries. On coordination and teamwork to confront common threats.

To ensure that the opening of the NATO office is in Jordan's interest and sovereignty, specific mechanisms and guarantees must be put in place. First, a clear agreement should be negotiated that defines the scope and objectives of cooperation, with guarantees of non-interference in Jordanian internal affairs.

Second, there must be national oversight mechanisms over the office's activities, to ensure their compatibility with Jordanian national interests. A joint committee of Jordanian government agencies and NATO could be established to follow up on the implementation of the agreements and ensure the achievement of common goals without compromising Jordan’s sovereignty.

Third, transparency and communication with the Jordanian people about the goals and benefits of this cooperation can be enhanced, to avoid any misunderstanding or popular concern about the impact of this cooperation on national sovereignty.

Finally: Opening the NATO office in Jordan represents a strategic step aimed at strengthening security and military cooperation, which could bring great benefits to Jordan in terms of strengthening its defence and security capabilities and enhancing its international standing. It enhances regional and strategic balances. However, there must be clear mechanisms to ensure that this cooperation is in Jordan’s interest and respects its sovereignty, with careful management of regional relations to avoid any negative repercussions.

Hasan Dajah is professor of strategic studies at Al Hussein Bin Talal University