Jordan’s King Abdullah on the Financial Situation
King Abdullah II of Jordan called on wealthy nations with strong economies to help poor and developing nations overcome the consequences of the current financial crisis and realize the UN-set Millennium Development goals by the year 2015. The King urged advanced countries to shoulder their responsibilities and extend financial and technical support to underprivileged countries and promote trade and investments in these countries. This also means that wealthy nations will provide developing countries’ products access to their markets.
He said that 2008 witnessed the emergence of a major economic challenge, following the rise in prices of oil and basic food items, reflecting negatively on the living conditions of citizens in poor nations and their efforts to alleviate poverty and unemployment. Jordan relies heavily on foreign assistance, especially in the form of grants. The King also discussed a new development plan for Jordan’s agricultural sector for 2009.
The King stressed that world leaders and influential countries will be crucial in restoring confidence in the world’s financial system.
Kasey Malcoun
