Jordan Times
Sunday, January 28, 2007
'Stability of middle class essential for progress’
DAVOS (Petra) — His Majesty King Abdullah on
Friday said the middle class in Jordan, once a vital and growing segment of
society, had been adversely affected by the rise in oil prices.
During a meeting with representatives of young global and Arab leaders on the
sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, the Monarch said this was the
major economic and political challenge facing the Kingdom, and stressed the
importance of improving the income of the middle class.
He said the stability and comfort of the middle class are two essential
requirements for the development and progress of any society, both at the
political and social levels.
Underlining the need to support the middle class, King Abdullah noted political
reform will be achieved if this segment’s stability is ensured.
In this regard, the Monarch underlined the importance of the business sector in
reducing unemployment and fighting poverty, which are factors that enhance
extremism.
King Abdullah also highlighted the pivotal role played by the younger generation
in progress and development, which necessitates realising their needs by
creating job opportunities and providing them with a better future.
Established in 2004 by Professor Klaus Schwab, the Forum of Young Global Leaders
is a unique, multi-stakeholder community of the world’s most extraordinary young
leaders who dedicate a part of their time to jointly address global challenges
and who are committed to devote part of their knowledge and energy to
collectively work towards a better future, according to their website.
Together, they engage in the 2030 Initiative, a comprehensive endeavour to
understand current and future trends, risks and opportunities both at global and
regional levels, formulate a positive vision for the world in 2030 and put
forward concrete strategies and work streams to translate their vision into
action.
Also on Friday, King Abdullah met with Micheline Calmy-Rey, president of the
Swiss Confederation and federal councillor of foreign affairs, and discussed
bilateral relations and regional developments.
In addition, the Monarch met with Schwab, executive chairman and founder of the
World Economic Forum, and discussed preparations for holding the forum at the
Dead Sea from May 18 to 20.
King Abdullah reviewed the main topics on the agenda, chief among them peace in
the region.
The meeting will also highlight new investment opportunities in the Middle East
and tackle key success factors for continuing growth and job creation.
The forum will also be a focal point for a new dialogue between Islam and the
West on issues ranging from political and economic subjects to social and moral
questions. Political development and security issues in the region will also be
high on the agenda.