Petra, April 29 (Petra) -- Chief Commissioner of the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA), Adnan Al Sawair, and Swiss Ambassador to Jordan Emilia Georgieva met on Wednesday to explore enhanced cooperation on climate change adaptation projects in Wadi Musa.
The discussions took place during a field visit by a Swiss delegation, conducted in coordination with Mercy Corps as part of the "Nature" project. The initiative aims to strengthen partnerships and coordination between various stakeholders to manage flood risks, preserve water resources, and address the climate and economic priorities of local communities.
Al Sawair noted that the partnership with the Swiss Embassy and Mercy Corps serves as an effective model for international cooperation. He emphasized that the implementation of high-quality projects in flood risk management and water efficiency is vital for protecting residents and ensuring the sustainability of regional development.
Ambassador Georgieva reaffirmed Switzerland’s commitment to supporting local efforts to combat climate change. She stated that the ongoing projects reflect the importance of collaborative action with local communities to develop sustainable solutions for water management and disaster risk reduction.
The visit included field inspections of several major valleys in Wadi Musa, including Al-Sadr and Al-Maqar. The delegation reviewed the progress of check dams and storage reservoirs designed to mitigate flash flood risks and bolster the area’s resilience.
The delegation also visited Ain Musa, one of the region’s most significant historical water sources, to observe its role in supporting the sustainability of local water supplies.
As part of efforts to engage the local population, a dialogue session was held with community representatives and a local advocacy committee. The talks focused on the intersection of climate and economic challenges and explored efforts to enhance sustainable livelihoods, particularly for those whose income depends heavily on the tourism sector.
The visit falls within a broader framework of international cooperation aimed at increasing the readiness of the Petra region to face future environmental challenges while supporting long-term development goals.
//Petra// AF
