Remarks in April 2007
Mr. Shigenobu Kato, Ambassador of Japan, delivered a speech at the ceremony of approving the Counterpart Fund of the Project for Developing Jordan’s Civil Defense equipment on 23 April 2007
His Excellency Mr. Eid Al-Fayez, Minister of Interior
Her Excellency Mrs. Suhair Al-Ali, Minister of Planning and International Cooperation
His Excellency Brigadier General Nasser Abu Baqar, Deputy Director of Civil Defense
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,
On behalf of the Government of Japan, I am very pleased and honored to be here today at the Ceremony of the approval of the Counterpart Fund Project for Developing Jordan’s Civil Defense Appliances. Your Excellency Mrs. Suhair Al-Ali, Minister of Planning and International Cooperation, 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 worked together 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.
Recently, it has been observed in Jordan that there has been an increasing demands requesting rescue operations for its civil defense authorities. Especially in this winter, Jordan has faced arduous weather conditions, namely heavy snowfall, in the southern regions. On one 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 Jordan expressed for the support provided by Japan through the Counterpart Fund. Japan approved the utilization of the Fund up to Sixteen Million JD (16,000,000 JD) (approximately US$ 22.6 million) for the procurement of fire engines, ambulances, and other appliances in Middle and Southern part of Jordan. 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 development of the standard of living in Jordan.
Last but not least, I would like to express my deep appreciation to the staff of Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation, and the civil defense authorities who devote themselves to saving Jordanian citizens’ safety at all times.
In closing, I wish to commend the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan for its aspirations improving the standard of living of its people under the wise leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein. Let us continue building the bonds of friendship and goodwill through cooperation and mutual respect for each other.
Thank you.
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