Irbid, April 19 (Petra) -- European Union Ambassador to Jordan Pierre-Christophe Chatzisavas reaffirmed the depth of EU–Jordan relations, describing Jordan as a key strategic partner in a volatile region. He praised the leadership of King Abdullah II, portraying him as a central figure in regional stability efforts.
Speaking during a visit to the Yarmouk University, the ambassador highlighted the maturity and strength of cooperation between Jordan and the European Union, characterizing it as a partnership built on shared principles and long-term interests. He also emphasized Jordan’s important role in helping the EU better understand regional dynamics and challenges.
He highlighted the EU’s appreciation of its coordination with Jordan in upholding international humanitarian law, praising the Kingdom’s efforts in facilitating humanitarian aid corridors to Gaza and Lebanon.
The ambassador announced a major €300 million EU initiative aimed at strengthening Jordan’s education sector, alongside broader plans to invest in national development priorities, including the National Water Carrier project and digital economy initiatives. Additionally, he revealed preparations for a forthcoming European investment forum to be hosted in Amman.
President of the University Malik Shrairi presented areas of academic cooperation with European institutions, noting that the university is engaged in around 24 EU-funded projects with a combined value exceeding €16.1 million, of which approximately €1.97 million is allocated to the university.
He added that over 200 students participated in exchange programs in Europe between 2021 and 2026, with a similar number of European students hosted in Jordan. In addition, 170 faculty and administrative staff benefited from capacity-building programs, alongside joint projects in renewable energy, green hydrogen, and digital transformation.
Shrairi added that Yarmouk University is working to broaden its international academic engagement through dual-degree programs and collaborative research, reinforcing its position as a regional academic partner for Europe.
The ambassador also joined a discussion session on EU–Jordan relations with students and academics, where conversations focused on expanding scholarship opportunities and preparing young people for future labor markets shaped by digital innovation and green technologies.
//Petra// WH
