The Jordanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed its gratitude following the European Parliament's approval of a macro-financial assistance package worth 500 million euros for Jordan. The vote took place during a general session on April 2, 2025, in Strasbourg, where the Parliament endorsed the aid package with a significant majority of 571 votes in favor, against 59 votes opposed, and 46 abstentions.
Dr. Sufian Al-Qudah, the official spokesman for the ministry, highlighted the importance of this financial support, stating that the European Commission will propose an additional assistance package of 500 million euros in the near future. This will bring the total financial assistance to Jordan to a remarkable one billion euros for the years 2025 to 2027.
Expressing pride in this development, Al-Qudah noted that the support from the European Union not only strengthens the strategic partnership between Jordan and the EU but also acknowledges the Kingdom's pivotal role in promoting peace and stability in the region.
This recent financial assistance is part of a broader commitment from the EU to support Jordan, which includes a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement signed by King Abdullah II and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels on January 29, 2025. During this signing, they announced a financial assistance package totaling approximately 3 billion euros for Jordan over the same period, comprising grants worth 640 million euros and investment support of 1.4 billion euros, along with the macro-financial assistance.
The European Parliament's decision to support Jordan comes against the backdrop of ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region. The EU has been actively involved in providing financial aid to Jordan since 2013, with this being the fourth major assistance effort in recent years. The assistance aims to cover urgent financing needs, support structural reforms, and enhance the country's commitment to sound public finances.
In addition to the financial assistance for Jordan, the European Parliament also approved a separate macro-financial assistance project for Egypt, which received 4 billion euros. This decision reflects the EU's recognition of the critical economic and financial situations faced by both countries.
On March 15, 2024, the European Commission proposed comprehensive financial assistance for Egypt, which was subsequently approved by the Parliament with a majority of 452 votes. The assistance to Egypt includes a short-term loan of 1 billion euros, which was disbursed at the end of 2024, and an ordinary loan of 4 billion euros, to be distributed in three payments.
Celine Imart, a member of the European People's Party from France, emphasized the importance of this support, stating, "This Parliament support strengthens our alliance. It can provide funds to Jordan quickly, and the Parliament's intervention in loans with member states accelerates the process provided for Egypt by quickly concluding an agreement. Our partners' support means strengthening European solutions in a more stable region."
The upcoming steps involve obtaining official approval from the Council on the financial assistance package allocated to Jordan before it becomes effective. Meanwhile, negotiations for the financial assistance to Egypt are expected to commence soon.
As Jordan continues to navigate its economic challenges, the financial support from the European Union is seen as a vital lifeline that will bolster the Kingdom's efforts in achieving sustainable development and stability. The commitment from the EU not only addresses immediate financial needs but also underscores the importance of democratic governance, the rule of law, and human rights in Jordan's ongoing reforms.
In summary, the approval of the macro-financial assistance package by the European Parliament marks a significant step in enhancing Jordan's economic resilience and reflects the EU's ongoing commitment to supporting its partners in the region. With the additional support expected in the near future, Jordan is poised to tackle its challenges head-on, reinforcing its strategic partnership with the European Union.
