Jordan II: Ancient Kingdom modern perspectives
Aired January 2007
History has proven that in places where East and West have merged and blended, elements combine and create a harmonious medley. There is living proof that the fusion of cultures brings about great things.
„Ahlan Wah Sahlan!“ Welcome to Jordan!
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is quite simply extraordinary, and is one of the world’s most unforgettable and rewarding destinations. It is a fascinating mix of modern and ancient, of earth and water, of the exotic and the mundane. Though surrounded by instability, Jordan is the safest country in the region by a long shot. Jordan is the face of the moderate Middle East.
Jordan is bordered by Syria and Iraq to the north, Saudi Arabia to the south, and to the west, Israel or Palestine, depending on your politics.
For all its history, Jordan is far from being stuck in the past. The capital, Amman, is a thoroughly modern and rapidly developing city. The government is stable, with leanings towards democracy under a constitutional monarchy headed by His Majesty, King Abdullah II, and his wife, Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah.
TRADE, INDUSTRY AND FINANCE
In recent years Jordan has made considerable progress toward achieving macroeconomic stability and implementing economic reform, especially in the areas of privatization and improving the business and investment climate. It stands out in the region as a model of sound, investor-friendly economic policy.
Jordan is looking to establish itself as a base for regional and international trade. The Free Trade Agreement, and the further development of the special economic zone of Aqaba are augmenting Jordan's economic prospects and commercial appeal.
Jordan is the sixth largest phosphate rock producer and the second largest exporter of phosphate rock in the world after the United States. Phosphate rock and potash are the largest exporters in terms of revenue. Jordan is also starting to become a hub for manufacturing and information techonology, and has forged a comprehensive, high-quality system to develop the human capital of its citizens.
The banking system is comprised of various commercial, investment and Islamic banks. The Central Bank of Jordan is the system’s regulatory authority.
The Amman Stock Exchange was established in March 1999. Together with the Securities Depository Center and the Jordan Securities Commission, the Amman Stock Exchange guarantees a healthy capital market.
TOURISM
Western travellers have been exploring the diverse countries of the Middle East for well over a century, but Jordan remains a newcomer to tourism, welcoming only a fraction of the numbers who visit neighbouring Egypt and Israel. Yet one thing remains certain: the country leaves an indelible mark on every visitor’s imagination.
Images of the ancient Nabatean city of Petra, carved from rock over a thousand years ago, have long been most Americans‘ first impression of Jordan. But while indeed Petra is one of the most stunning attractions in the Middle East, Jordan offers so much more.
The country is sprinkled with hotels and resorts on par with some of the best found in Europe and the United States. A recent surge in hotel construction is a testament to the growing number of travellers into Jordan, bringing not only tourist dollars but investments as well.
No visitor to Jordan is unmoved by its sheer beauty. Above all else, the most enduring memory of Jordan is likely to be its people. Their gracious welcome and boundless hospitality speak of an altogether civilized age and time.
