Ambassador of Jordan visits IIASA

Albert van Jaarsveld welcomed Ambassador Abu Alfoul and provided an overview of the institute's most recent research activities with Jordan.

The Kingdom of Jordan became a prospective member of IIASA in 2020 through the Royal Scientific Society of Jordan. Since then, research collaborations between IIASA and Jordan have intensified considerably. Scientists from IIASA and Jordan are working on a number of research priorities, including on the water-energy nexus in Jordan, stakeholder engagement and governance for a sustainable future, developing the methods of systems analysis, and understanding policy and decision-making responses to pandemics.

Ambassador Abu Alfoul introduced the recently approved Jordanian Economic Modernization Vision document, which is based on two strategic pillars: accelerated growth through unleashing Jordan’s full economic potential, and improved quality of life for all citizens, with sustainability forming the cornerstone of this future vision. IIASA is seen as an important partner of the research community in Jordan to contribute to the successful implementation of this strategic plan.

The crucial role of science, and of IIASA as such, in helping to address shared global challenges such as climate change, food and energy security, population aging, and sustainable development, was also highlighted during the meeting.