PM Modi, King Abdullah II hold talks in Amman, set $5 billion trade target
New Delhi, December 15. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 15 met King Abdullah II of Jordan at the Al Husseiniya Palace in Amman, where he was accorded a ceremonial welcome, marking a key moment in bilateral ties as the two countries commemorate 75 years of diplomatic relations.
The two leaders held discussions in both restricted and delegation-level formats, recalling their earlier interactions and underscoring the long-standing and cordial relationship between India and Jordan. Prime Minister Modi thanked King Abdullah II for his sustained efforts to deepen bilateral cooperation, while the Jordanian monarch reiterated strong support for India’s fight against terrorism and condemned terrorism in all its forms. Modi, in turn, praised King Abdullah’s leadership in countering terrorism, extremism and radicalisation, and his role in global efforts to address these challenges.
The talks covered a wide range of sectors, including trade and investment, defence and security, renewable energy, fertilisers and agriculture, innovation and digital technologies, critical minerals, infrastructure, health and pharmaceuticals, education and capacity building, tourism, culture and people-to-people exchanges. Noting that India is Jordan’s third-largest trading partner, Modi proposed raising bilateral trade to $5 billion over the next five years. He also suggested collaboration between Jordan’s digital payment systems and India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI).
Fertiliser cooperation featured prominently in the discussions, with Jordan identified as a key supplier to India. Companies from both sides are in talks to expand investment in Jordan to meet India’s growing demand for phosphatic fertilisers.
The leaders also exchanged views on regional and global developments, stressing the need to restore peace and stability in the region. Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s support for ongoing efforts aimed at achieving a durable peace.
During the visit, the two sides finalised memoranda of understanding in areas such as culture, renewable energy, water management, digital public infrastructure, and a twinning arrangement between Petra and Ellora. These agreements are expected to significantly strengthen bilateral cooperation.
The discussions concluded with a banquet hosted by King Abdullah II in honour of the Prime Minister. Modi invited the Jordanian monarch to visit India, an invitation that was accepted.
