A meeting of the Jordanian-Syrian Higher Joint Committee concluded with the signing of agreements on improving cooperation in economic, political, tourism, agricultural, social and transport fields.
Officials from the countries' trade and industry ministries signed another deal on cooperation in specification and standardisation fields.
Minutes of the meeting indicated that discussions covered progress in linking the two countries' electricity grids as part of a regional project that also includes Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt and Turkey.
The energy ministers reported that work on the project is nearing completion and the network would be operational within the next few weeks.
The meeting approved executive measures to start construction of Al Wihdeh Dam on the Yarmouk running between Jordan and Syria. The dam will hold 225 million cubic metres of water, and is expected to be constructed at a cost of over $150 million.
The Jordan News Agency, Petra, said the two sides agreed to promote bilateral cooperation in trade exchange and fairs, telecommunications, water and irrigation, oil and mineral resources, geology, electricity, higher education and health.
At the conclusion of the talks, Abul Ragheb said the two countries took important steps towards integration which has become a strategic requirement to meet the challenge of a changing world economy.
The premier said Jordan appreciates Syria's assistance, especially in supplying water to the Kingdom and backs its efforts at the pan-Arab level.
Abul Ragheb said peace in the Middle East can never be achieved without the return of all occupied Arab lands and reiterated Jordan's full support for Syria in regaining its occupied territories in implementation of UN resolutions.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Federation of Jordanian Chambers of Commerce Haidar Murad said on Saturday that an economic delegation led by Minister of Trade and Industry Wasef Azar will visit Syria on Aug. 27. The delegation will attend the opening of the Damascus International Fair and hold talks with representatives of different economic sectors in Syria.
Murad, who accompanied the prime minister on his visit to Syria, said intensive meetings between Jordanian and Syrian officials and representatives of the private sector are expected in the coming weeks.
He said a joint follow-up committee, set up by the two countries, is planning to meet every three months to ensure the implementation of signed agreements.
Murad said the higher committee has taken steps to lift trade barriers and to facilitate joint investments and create free trade zone. ― (Jordan Times)
© 2000 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
