Petra, April 1 (Petra) -- A consultative meeting titled "Local Communities and Sustainable Tourism – Petra" was launched in the Petra district in cooperation with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), under the patronage of Commissioner for Sustainable Development Fatima Hilalat, with the participation of representatives from local cooperatives and civil society organizations.

The meeting aimed to assess the needs of local communities through cooperatives and charitable associations, and to explore mechanisms to enhance their capacity and economic participation in support of sustainable development in the region.

Discussions focused on key challenges and opportunities across several sectors, including the food processing industry, as well as strategies to develop micro and small enterprises and strengthen their contribution to the local economy.

Hilalat said the meeting serves as a platform to identify priority needs and inform the development of targeted interventions and future programs. She noted that follow-up sessions will be held to track progress and refine outcomes, ensuring optimal utilization of available opportunities.

The initiative comes as part of coordinated efforts to empower local communities and reinforce their role in driving inclusive economic growth and sustainable tourism development in the Petra district.

//Petra// AJ