Amman, Sept. 22 (Petra) The Foundation for the Development of Lands Adjacent to the Baptism Site is accelerating infrastructure and planning efforts for the Bethany Beyond the Jordan village project, backed by new financial contributions from the Association of Banks in Jordan (ABJ) and Jordan Phosphate Mines Company (JPMC).
The funding will be directed toward designing a green zone in line with the project's environmental guidelines, conducting feasibility studies for a sustainable transport system to improve visitor access, and developing design plans for a local agricultural sorting, packaging, and marketing facility.
The funds will also support community training programs, the creation of local handicraft products, and the launch of a dedicated e-commerce platform.
These initiatives aim to provide technical, financial, and strategic readiness for future investments and partnerships while reinforcing compliance with UNESCO requirements.
Development of the adjacent lands aims to protect the global historical and religious significance of the Baptism Site, enrich the pilgrim experience, and drive sustainable economic opportunities for local communities ahead of 2030, which marks 2,000 years since the baptism of Jesus Christ.
The Bethany Beyond the Jordan village forms the cornerstone of this plan, offering integrated spiritual, cultural, and hospitality services that complement visits to the sacred site.
Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation for the Development of Lands Adjacent to the Baptism Site, Tharwat Masalha, praised the ABJ and JPMC support, noting that national coordination is crucial for a project of global significance.
"As we prepare for 2030, marking two millennia since the baptism of Jesus Christ, this support plays a vital role in transforming our vision into concrete projects that fit the international standing of the Baptism Site," Masalha said.
Maher Mahrouq, ABJ director general, said the banking sector's contribution reflects its commitment to national initiatives that blend economic growth, social development, and cultural preservation.
Abdul Wahab Al-Rowad, chief executive officer of JPMC, said the company is proud to partner in a project that creates sustainable local impact while highlighting Jordan's unique heritage on the world stage.
//Petra// AF
