Amman, Aug. 26 (Petra) -- Jordan and China have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen cooperation on environmental protection and climate change, with the agreement covering biodiversity, pollution control, waste management, climate action and the transition toward a green, low-carbon economy.
The MoU was signed on the sidelines of His Majesty King Abdullah II’s visit to China, during which His Majesty held talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping. It was among a series of agreements and memoranda concluded during the visit to expand cooperation and partnership between the two countries.
The agreement establishes a framework for environmental and climate cooperation that takes into account the policies and socioeconomic conditions of both countries, while supporting their sustainable development objectives.
Areas of cooperation include environmental management and planning policies, biodiversity conservation, pollution prevention and control, marine environmental protection and solid waste management, including plastic waste.
The two countries will also cooperate on climate change, environmental impact assessments and environmental awareness and education.
The MoU provides for the exchange of policies, expertise and practical experience, as well as joint research and studies. Cooperation may also include visits by experts, scientists and delegations, alongside workshops, training programs and joint meetings.
Environment Minister Ayman Suleiman said the agreement represents an important step in expanding environmental cooperation between Jordan and China and strengthening the Kingdom’s international partnerships in addressing environmental and climate challenges.
He said Jordan is seeking to benefit from international expertise, experience and modern technologies, with the ministry aiming to translate the agreement into practical programs and projects during the next phase.
Priority areas include strengthening the green and circular economies, improving waste management, reducing pollution, protecting biodiversity, advancing climate action and building national capacities, Suleiman said.
He added that the partnership aligns with the Economic Modernisation Vision and its sustainable environment pillar, which seeks to improve resource efficiency, support the green transition and strengthen Jordan’s resilience to the impacts of climate change.
The cooperation is also expected to support the Kingdom’s efforts to meet its environmental and climate commitments and objectives.
Under the agreement, Jordan’s Ministry of Environment and China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment will oversee implementation and coordinate joint activities. Each side will appoint a coordinator to follow up on implementation and facilitate continued cooperation.
The MoU forms part of broader efforts by Jordan and China to deepen bilateral ties and expand cooperation in sustainable development, environmental protection and climate action.
//Petra// RZ
