Amman, Oct. 29 (Petra) -- Jordan and Ethiopia discussed expanding economic cooperation and investment opportunities, with a focus on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and strengthening trade and knowledge exchange.

Jordan Enterprise Development Corporation (JEDCO) CEO Ghaleb Hijazi held talks with Hassen Hussein, CEO of Ethiopia's Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI), to explore potential partnerships, according to a JEDCO statement issued Thursday.

Discussions focused on several sectors, including modern agriculture, the green and circular economies, pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, chemicals, and tourism.

The two sides also explored opportunities for direct business partnerships, exchanges of expertise and joint initiatives supporting innovation and knowledge and technology transfer, to help SMEs strengthen their competitiveness and expand into new markets.

Hijazi reviewed Ethiopia's experience in entrepreneurship development, including business incubators, training programs, and services for entrepreneurs and business owners. During a meeting with business clinics, he learned about practices aimed at strengthening the entrepreneurship ecosystem and developing SMEs’ capabilities.

Both sides emphasized the importance of strengthening institutional cooperation and drawing on economic advantages and opportunities in both countries to support SME growth, facilitate investment, and create employment opportunities. They also highlighted the potential for productive and commercial partnerships that add value to both economies.

//Petra// AO