EU Boosts Investment and Job Creation in Jordan and Syria to Secure Renewable Energy

The European Union is preparing to convene investors for a conference in Jordan next week, aiming to secure cheaper renewable energy and create investment opportunities for European companies. Dubravka Suica, the EU Commissioner for the Mediterranean, informed The National that between 60 and 70 European companies have expressed interest in investing in the kingdom, which she described as the most stable country in the region.

Ms Suica emphasized that the EU's goals include creating jobs, developing skills, and supporting Jordan's stability while gaining access to affordable renewable energy. She noted that these efforts engage Jordanian youth in developing and electrifying their own country. Regarding a recent church attack in Jordan that killed nine people, Ms Suica expressed full support for the Jordanian authorities' investigation, though she did not commit to additional counter-terrorism financing.

The EU's engagement is part of the "Pact for the Mediterranean," an initiative launched last year to deepen ties with southern neighbors through security cooperation and economic integration. Addressing concerns about human rights abuses in partner countries like Libya, Ms Suica stated that human rights and democracy standards are often preconditions for macro financial assistance, though achieving uniform standards across the Mediterranean remains a challenge.

Speaking at the Cop31 climate summit in Antalya, Turkey, Ms Suica discussed the transition from fossil fuels to electricity. She noted that Europe's own experience with over-dependence on Russian fossil fuel imports has highlighted the importance of energy diversification. To support this, the European Commission launched an investment platform backed by ⁃4.5 billion in EU guarantees to mobilize renewable energy and clean technology investments across the Mediterranean. This "T-Med" initiative already includes projects such as the Sidi Bouzid 100MW solar project and the Ain Sokhna green ammonia project in Egypt.

In addition to Jordan, Ms Suica will visit Syria to co-chair a major forum in Damascus with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al Shibani. She expressed trust in the Syrian authorities, stating they are on a good track and require technical assistance to rebuild institutions, specifically citing the central bank. The EU has committed ⁃620 million in support for Syria for 2026 and 2027, focusing on attracting investment and creating an environment that encourages Syrians in Europe to return and rebuild their country.

Ms Suica also highlighted the Mediterranean climate crisis, noting the region is warming 20 percent faster than the global average. She stressed that cooperation on environmental standards is essential to prevent pollution, citing the high levels of plastic waste entering the Mediterranean Sea. Finally, she emphasized that peace and security are prerequisites for prosperity, calling for ceasefires in conflicts involving Israel, Lebanon, and Palestine. She mentioned her discussions with Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar regarding aid deliveries to Gaza and the ongoing tensions between the US and Iran.