Economic Policy Support Forum Hosts Jordanian Minister of Foreign Affairs to Discuss Jordan’s Accession to GCC at TAGSB
21-Aug-2011
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Special to ag-IP-news Agency
AMMAN - The Economic Policy Support Forum hosted HE Mr. Nasser Judeh, Jordanian Minister of Foreign Affairs, in a discussion group at the Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Graduate School of Business (TAGSB) to discuss mechanisms and preparations of the Jordanian government for the Kingdom’s accession to the Gulf Countries Council (GCC).
The discussion session was attended by the Forum’s Chairman and members of Jordan’s Accession to the GCC Committee, one of the main committees formed by the Economic Policy Support Forum being the competent body concerned with the study of terms and consequences of Jordan’s accession to the GCC.
At the beginning of the session, HE Ms. Reem Badran, chairperson of the Committee, briefly explained the tasks and objectives of the Forum, which was initiated by HE Dr. Talal Abu- Ghazaleh.
She stressed that the discussion group aims being updated by the Minister of where the accession procedures stand now in terms of challenges, in addition to the benefits to be achieved as well as the expertise that the Forum can offer to help realize this significant objective for both Jordan and GCC countries.
HE Mr. Judeh confirmed that the notion of the accession is an old – new one and not the result of certain events, as some may think. He said “we actually applied for the membership of GCC and the GCC countries initiative conformed that this accession serves the GCC countries as well as Jordan."
Judeh tackled the skepticism raised in some news articles, statements and rumors saying that they are unrealistic.
However, he pointed out that there were some remarks from officials of both sides which aimed at realizing the accession smoothly adding that the communications still continue with the leaders and officials of the GCC in this regard.
The Minister revealed that it has been agreed to hold a meeting between September 10th and 15th to identify the phases and roadmap, stressing it will be an important meeting but it is just only the beginning.
Judeh explained that the accession efforts are led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in coordination and cooperation with all ministries and institutions of the country. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs organizes work groups in all sectors and after the September meeting ministerial committees will be established from Jordan and GCC countries.
During the discussion session, various ideas and inputs were presented and the Minister answered all questions. He also promised to hold another meeting with the Forum's Committee by the middle of next September.