The citizens of Jordan today celebrated the 66th anniversry of their independence.
Jordan Independence Day is a significant public holiday in Jordan where it is observed on May 25 every year. On this day, the nation achieved its freedom in 1946 from the British dominion.
Jordan Independence Day is observed throughout the country where universities organize round tables and symposiums on different themes associated with the holiday.
US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton today sent her best wishes to the people of Jordan as they celebrate Independence Day.
According to Ms. Clinton, the United States deeply values its long history of cooperation and friendship with Jordan.
The United States appreciates the special leadership role that Jordan plays in advancing peace and moderation in the region.
Both countries also share the mutual goals of a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in the Middle East and an end to violent extremism that threatens the security of Jordan, the region, and the entire globe.
She states the United States encourages Jordanian efforts to implement reforms that will secure a better future for the Jordanian people.
“As you celebrate this anniversary of Jordan’s independence, know that the United States is a steadfast partner and friend. Congratulations and best wishes for peace and prosperity in the years to come.” -Ms. Clinton
On January 2011, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and Jordanian Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh expressed their partnership and commitment in ensuring lasting peace in the Middle East.
According to Clinton, Jordan has developed important relationships with many critical countries and has built a unique and respected position as a peace broker among diverse parties.
Jordan was a critical player in the creation of the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative, which brought 57 Muslim states together to advocate a comprehensive peace between Israel and all Arab states.
The US government also considers Jordanian peacekeeping troops have served in far-flung places around the world, including Haiti, Sudan, and Cote d’Ivoire.
For both our nations, permanent peace in the Middle East remains their number one priority. Jordan and the United States believe, will not only bring peace and prosperity to those who are directly affected, but it will be a major step toward a world free of extremism.
In addition, U.S. economic assistance aims to keep Jordan on the path to growth and development, while supporting the Government of Jordan in advancing a political, economic, and social reform agenda.
In 2011, USAID programs in Jordan are based on $363 million in Economic Support Funds (ESF) in FY 2010 and another $100 million in supplemental assistance from FY 2010. The programs include:
-$76 million to support Jordan’s education reform initiatives;
-$49.5 million to address priorities in the public health sector;
-$22 million to enhance the life and employability skills of youth in underprivileged areas and to help alleviate poverty;
– $55.5 million to spur trade, increase investment, and create job opportunities for Jordanians;
-$26 million to support political development;
-$30 million for water and environment and $10 million for energy; and
-$194 million in cash transfer assistance to assist the Jordanian Government decrease its international debt and advance its reform initiatives.
The U.S. Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) is looking to provide over $400 million in financing to mobilize $1 billion of development projects in Jordan. The projects focus on infrastructure development in the transportation, energy, and tourism sectors and represent potential partnerships between American and Jordanian businesses to promote shared economic growth.
