On December 12, Prime Minister Dr. Bisher Khasawneh and U.S. Ambassador to Jordan Yael Lempert attended the signing of a significant grant agreement for an $845.1 million cash transfer to support Jordan. This agreement is part of the United States' economic assistance program under a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the two countries.
The agreement was signed by Zeina Toukan, Minister of Planning and International Cooperation, on behalf of Jordan, and Leslie Reed, USAID Mission Director, representing the U.S. government.
Minister Toukan highlighted the strategic partnership with the United States and its importance for Jordan's development across various fields. She expressed gratitude for the support which aids in implementing Jordan’s inclusive economic growth and reform initiatives.
The cash grant is part of broader U.S. economic aid outlined in an MOU covering 2023 to 2029, assisting Jordan in financial and development planning.
Ambassador Lempert remarked that “U.S. assistance, including this $845.1 million cash transfer, demonstrates the deep and enduring commitment of the United States to the Jordanian people." The aid supports reforms aimed at job creation, financial stability, strengthening the private sector as an economic engine, and addressing water scarcity exacerbated by climate change.
USAID Mission Director Leslie Reed noted that this partnership enhances lives across Jordan through improved healthcare access, education, and water services.
This MOU is notable as it represents both the largest and longest agreement in bilateral relations between Jordan and the United States. It formalizes long-term U.S. support for national reform efforts in various sectors including women's workforce participation and refugee hosting.
Minister Toukan stated that under this agreement unprecedented levels of annual support are promised starting from 2023 with a minimum annual aid not less than $1.035 billion subject to fund availability and Congressional appropriations.
The recently signed cash grant includes an additional $200 million beyond what was committed annually in the MOU to bolster monetary stability within Jordan's budget while supporting economic development efforts.
According to Minister Toukan, this cash transfer will directly support public treasury accounts aiming to strengthen government initiatives across multiple sectors such as finance, water management, energy solutions among others.