Amman: The Council of Ministers convened on Sunday to review the status of municipal operations and explore enhancements for the performance and governance of the Cities and Villages Development Bank (CVDB). The session underscored the government's commitment to improving municipal services for citizens.
According to Jordan News Agency, the Cabinet approved recommendations from the CVDB Board of Directors, including a comprehensive municipal debt restructuring plan. This initiative aims to alleviate financial burdens on municipalities, strengthen the bank's financial position, and ensure liquidity for emergency municipal needs. Key elements of the restructuring plan include rescheduling municipal debt, waiving JOD 170 million in unpaid interest, reducing interest rates, and requiring municipalities to submit financial reform plans.
The government emphasized that the plan would place municipalities on a sustainable financial trajectory, aiding in revenue generation, spending control, and service delivery enhancements. Additionally, Minister of Local Administration Walid Masri briefed the Cabinet on the progress of municipal committees, noting advancements in cleanliness, financial management, administrative efficiency, and service delivery.
In efforts to bolster tourism, the Cabinet approved new regulations for tourism offices and tour guide services, streamlining procedures, reducing financial guarantee requirements, and clarifying professional obligations. Furthermore, the Cabinet endorsed new financial governance regulations for Al-Hussein Bin Talal University employees and approved Jordan's accession to an international water management convention.
The Cabinet also ratified a cooperation agreement with the Helping Hand Relief Foundation to implement joint social and humanitarian programs. In a key appointment, Waseem Mohammed Rashad Haddad was named Director General of the CVDB, after excelling in the Government Leadership System's evaluation process.