Remarks at handing over ceremony in April 2006
Delivered by Mr. Shigenobu Kato, Ambassador of Japan, on April 27, 2006
His Excellency Mr. Eid Al-Fayez, Minister of Interior,
His Excellency Major General Awad Al-Masae’d, Director General of Civil Defense,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,
On behalf of the Government of Japan, I am very pleased and honored to participate today, in particular as the newly assigned and designated Ambassador of Japan to Jordan, in the Handing–over Ceremony of the Project for Developing Jordan Civil Defense Appliances. His Excellency Mr. Eid Al-Fayez, Minister of Interior, I am especially honored by your esteemed presence here this morning, as together, our two countries seek new opportunities for areas of cooperation and mutual understanding.
Japan and Jordan have fostered a significant partnership and have walked hand in hand on the path of development and prosperity for decades.
One aspect of this great relationship is Japan's continuous assistance to Jordan, extending a helping hand to this country, so that it can rise to face the many challenges standing in its way. Today’s ceremony marks one of the fruits of cordial cooperation between the two friendly countries.
In recent years, it has been observed in Jordan that there has been an increasing in the number of emergency calls requesting rescue operations for its civil defense authorities. On occasion, swift and prompt emergency operations have been hindered by difficulties such as a replacement of authorities’ timeworn equipment. Enhancing the capability of the service sector of Jordan, therefore, is in urgent need.
In this regard, the Government of Japan has extended a grant worth 973 million Japanese Yen (approximately US$ 8.3 million) for the procurement of fire engines, ambulances, and other appliances in eight governorates, namely Ma’an, Karak, Aqaba, Tafieleh, Mafraq, Irbid, Jerash and Ajloun. The Government of Japan certainly appreciates that the fire-fighting and emergency medical services form an essential administrative function in the social and economic development in the country, particularly since these serve to protect people’s lives and properties from disasters and accidents.
It is my earnest hope that this project will enable the Government of Jordan to provide timely and reliable services for the Jordanian people, and further contribute towards the enhancement of the standard of living in Jordan.
Last but not least, I would like to express my deep appreciation to all the staff, civil defense authorities lead by His Excellency Major General Awad Al-Masae’d as well as JICA including Japanese consultant firm and supplier, who devoted themselves towards the success of this project and who helped to organize today’s ceremony.
In closing, I take this opportunity to thank the Government and people of Jordan for allowing us to work along with you in the bonds of friendship and goodwill, as together we try to ensure greater peace and stability in the world.
Thank you.
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