Aqaba: Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) and the Jordanian National Centre for Epidemics and Communicable Diseases Control (JCDC) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation in health monitoring, prevention, and rapid response to epidemics and communicable diseases.
According to Jordan News Agency, the partnership aims to elevate the level of health preparedness, strengthen the national health security system, and ensure prompt action in the face of health emergencies. Dr. Nidal Oran, ASEZA Commissioner for Environmental and Public Safety Affairs, and Dr. Adel Balbisi, JCDC Director, officiated the signing of the MoU.
During the signing ceremony, Oran highlighted the importance of this collaboration due to Aqaba's role as Jordan's only maritime gateway and a key hub for transportation and trade across sea, land, and air ports. He noted that the flow of travel and trade, coupled with industrial activities and chemical handling, poses a risk of epidemic spread, necessitating robust health emergency preparedness.
Dr. Balbisi echoed these sentiments, underscoring Aqaba's strategic importance as a maritime outlet for Jordan. He stressed the need to bolster the public health and safety system in the region to address its unique challenges.
Both ASEZA and JCDC confirmed that their cooperation adheres to national laws governing their activities, supports efforts to improve the healthcare infrastructure in Jordan, and responds to the region's growing industrial and logistical advancements. They are committed to ensuring optimal public health and safety standards.
The MoU outlines plans to establish joint coordination mechanisms and enhance collaboration in various areas. Key focuses include developing an integrated epidemiological surveillance system in Aqaba, conducting risk assessments, sharing health data and epidemiological reports, and implementing joint training programs, workshops, and emergency response simulations.
Additional areas of cooperation involve health studies and research, exchange of expertise, and shared access to laboratory facilities and resources for joint initiatives. This agreement marks a significant step in fortifying national partnerships, aligning with Aqaba's aspiration to be a secure and progressive economic and logistical center.