AMMAN: Jordan and Venezuela signed a series of agreements aimed at expanding cooperation during a visit by Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil to the kingdom on Sunday.
Gil met King Abdullah II in Amman, where discussions focused on ties between the two countries, opportunities for cooperation across several sectors and key regional and international developments, the Jordan News Agency reported.
Separately, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi held talks with Gil during what officials described as the first visit by a Venezuelan foreign minister to Jordan in more than 70 years of diplomatic relations.
Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi held talks with Gil during what officials described as the first visit by a Venezuelan foreign minister to Jordan in more than 70 years of diplomatic relations. (Petra)
The two ministers agreed to coordinate with relevant institutions in both countries to strengthen cooperation in agriculture, energy, investment, pharmaceuticals, tourism, information technology and culture.
Safadi and Gil also signed four agreements and memoranda of understanding covering agricultural cooperation, political consultations between the two foreign ministries, academic cooperation between diplomatic institutes and the establishment of a joint committee.
The two sides said they were also working to finalize agreements related to investment protection, double taxation and visa exemptions.
Speaking during a joint press conference, Safadi described the visit as “a new beginning” in relations between the two countries and said both governments shared the political will to deepen ties and expand economic cooperation.
Gil said Venezuela hoped to increase cooperation with Jordan in sectors including pharmaceuticals, technology, transport and agriculture, adding that Caracas viewed Jordan as an important regional partner.
He also praised Jordan’s role in the region and congratulated the kingdom on its 80th Independence Day.
The talks also addressed regional developments and efforts aimed at de-escalation and restoring stability in the Middle East, with Safadi reiterating Jordan’s support for collective efforts to reduce tensions.
