Iraq is an important and key economic partner of Jordan with joint large-scale projects, including the joint industrial zone and the oil pipeline, said President of the Jordan and Amman Chambers of Industry Fathi Jaghbir.

In a statement on Monday, Jaghbir called for further development of economic relations between Jordan and Iraq over the coming period, after the Iraqi Prime Minister and an accompanying delegation visited the Kingdom earlier today, voicing hope that the visit increases Jordanian exports to Iraq.

Trade exchange between Jordan and Iraq reached JD471 million last year, as Jordanian exports amounted to about JD412 million, compared to JD59 million in imports from Iraq, he added, pointing to the joint industrial zone, which, he described, as a positive and effective step towards strengthening economic relations, and an opportunity to leverage the exemptions and advantages of free trade agreements between the two countries.

He stated that there are many opportunities for cooperation between the private sectors in the two countries, pointing out the advantages and expertise available on both sides, which would achieve industrial integration.