H.E. Dr. Marwan Muasher
Ambassador of Jordan to the U.S. & Mexico
Ceremony to sign Trade and Investment Framework Agreement
between the United States and Jordan
Washington, D.C.
March 15, 1999
Ambassador Barshefsky,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Today marks another landmark in the special relations between the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the United States of America. The signature of the trade and investment framework agreement between our two countries is testimony to the high level of cooperation and understanding which characterizes our bilateral relations. Founded on close political ties, economic relations have witnessed a remarkable development in recent years, as evidenced by the signature of a bilateral investment treaty, an open skies agreement, and the qualified industrial zones agreement. U.S. economic and military assistance to Jordan has increased manifolds in recent years as well, a fact that is extremely appreciated by all Jordanians.
The strong U.S. support for Jordan expressed so eloquently and movingly by President Clinton at the time of the passing away of His Majesty, the late King Hussein, and later reinforced by concrete pledges of direct assistance, has had an enormous impact in maintaining our economic stability. The vote of confidence in our economic efforts and the constant work to help the Jordanian economy sustain itself in the midst of adverse regional circumstances have gone a long way in helping us meet the existing challenges.
This TIFA agreement signed today is yet another proof that the United States, not only believes in the prosperous future of the Jordanian economy, but that it is willing to work hand in hand with us to ensure that this dream becomes reality. As we agree on a road map and a framework for joint work that will lead eventually to a Free-Trade-Area Agreement between our two countries and to increase U.S. private investments in Jordan, we are both eager to execute the requirements as quickly and as efficiently as possible. It is less than nine months ago when the dedicated people from the U.S. Trade Representative's Office suggested to a visiting Jordanian ministerial delegation the idea of signing a TIFA. In no time, both governments concluded all the necessary work before agreement was reached, and this date was set for the signature. I am confident that both countries will conclude all the necessary arrangements in the same positive and dynamic spirit with which TIFA was reached and before long, we will sign a full-fledged FTA.
For me personally, it's a great honor to be part of the effort of cementing a long and successful relation between Jordan and the United States into a framework for economic cooperation that will usher Jordan into the next century with the strong backing of a true friend and ally. I wish to thank all of those who have made this possible. The list is long and starts with the president. But special thanks go to Secretary Daley, a friend of Jordan whose efforts are truly appreciated, Secretary Albright, Ambassador Barshefsky, Stu Eizenstat, Toni Verstandig, Martin Indyk, Dennis Ross, Bill Burns, Cathy Novelli, Madelyn Spirnak, Sharon Weiner, and Robin Dunnigan, and many others, have all worked to make our bilateral cooperation a special one indeed.
On behalf of the government of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, let me express our pride in signing this agreement and our commitment to solidify our bilateral relations and to work hard to implement the steps stipulated in this agreement.
Thank you very much.