Pakistan, Jordan agree to pursue preferential trade agreement, expand cooperation in 16 sectors

Pakistan and Jordan have committed to pursuing a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) and expanding bilateral cooperation in 16 priority sectors, including trade, finance, climate change, health, technology, and education. The agreement was formalised during the 10th session of the Pakistan-Jordan Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) held in Islamabad on February 4-5.

The session, co-chaired by Pakistan’s Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and Jordan’s Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply Yarub Qudah, marks a significant step in strengthening economic and institutional ties between the two countries, building on historical diplomatic relations.

Minister Kamal Khan welcomed the signing of the protocol, emphasizing the commitment of both nations to result-oriented cooperation, particularly in trade, investment, and private-sector engagement. A key outcome of the meeting was the decision to begin consultations on a PTA to enhance market access and reduce trade barriers.

Both sides also agreed to establish a Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment to lead the PTA process and support the activation of the Pakistan-Jordan Business Council to foster business-to-business linkages.

In addition, a Memorandum of Understanding on Information Technology and Telecommunications was signed to promote digital innovation and strengthen collaboration between the ICT sectors of both countries. The JMC also focused on expanding cooperation in banking, finance, agriculture, halal standards, education, healthcare, climate change, energy, mining, maritime affairs, media, culture, and tourism.

Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Muhammad Humair Karim Kidwai, emphasized the importance of structured follow-up mechanisms to ensure the effective implementation of decisions. Both countries committed to holding regular JMC sessions to further enhance bilateral economic ties.