The European Union and Jordan will co-host a major investment conference in Amman on April 21, 2026, aimed at bolstering economic ties and attracting capital to the region. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Jordan’s King Abdullah II are expected to attend the event, which will focus on strengthening collaboration between European and Jordanian businesses. This initiative underscores the EU’s commitment to economic diplomacy in the Middle East and its search for skilled labor.
The conference, announced on Monday by European Commissioner for the Mediterranean Dubravka Šuica and Jordanian Minister for International Cooperation Zeina Toukan, will serve as a platform for discussing potential projects and fostering partnerships. Toukan stated that promotional efforts are already underway, with visits planned to European capitals in the coming weeks. The event builds on a previously pledged €3 billion in EU financial support for Jordan between 2025 and 2027.
Boosting Investment in Jordan
The April conference is a direct result of the EU’s broader strategy to increase its economic and political influence in the Middle East, particularly in the wake of regional instability. Jordan is viewed as a crucial partner for the EU, offering a stable environment for investment and a source of skilled workers. According to Šuica, Jordan presents a “stable and competitive place to invest in a fast-changing world.”
The EU’s financial commitment of €3 billion, announced in January 2024, is allocated to key areas including trade, energy, security, and migration. Of this sum, €1.4 billion is earmarked for economic investment through EU financial instruments, providing a substantial framework for the projects to be discussed in Amman. This funding aims to support sustainable economic growth and improve living standards in Jordan.
Key Projects on the Agenda
Several significant projects are expected to be highlighted at the conference. The Aqaba–Amman Water Desalination Project, already benefiting from over €1.5 billion in EU and member state funding, will be a central topic. This project is critical for addressing Jordan’s water security challenges.
Additionally, the development of the Aqaba Digital Hub and the extension of the MEDUSA submarine cable to Jordan are slated for discussion. The MEDUSA cable, connecting North Africa with several European countries, promises to dramatically increase internet speeds for North African universities. These initiatives demonstrate a focus on digital infrastructure and technological advancement.
Another major undertaking, the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), is also expected to feature prominently. The first projects related to IMEC are anticipated to be unveiled in the first quarter of 2026, and the corridor is likely to pass through Jordan, enhancing regional trade connectivity. The Council on Foreign Relations provides further context on the IMEC project.
Implications for EU-Jordan Relations
The investment conference represents a significant step in strengthening the economic partnership between the EU and Jordan. The focus on infrastructure projects, digital connectivity, and water security aligns with Jordan’s national priorities and the EU’s broader regional objectives. The initiative also reflects a growing European interest in diversifying supply chains and reducing reliance on traditional partners.
However, the success of the conference will depend on attracting concrete investment commitments and ensuring effective implementation of the discussed projects. Challenges remain, including regional geopolitical risks and the need for continued reforms to improve Jordan’s business environment. The availability of skilled labor, a key asset highlighted by the EU, will also be crucial for attracting foreign direct investment.
Looking ahead, stakeholders will be closely watching for the specific details of the projects presented at the conference and the level of financial commitments secured. The event provides a valuable opportunity to deepen EU-Jordanian ties and promote sustainable economic development in the region. Businesses interested in exploring opportunities in Jordan are encouraged to monitor updates from the European Commission and the Jordanian Ministry of International Cooperation.
