Irbid: Head of the Greater Irbid Municipality’s committee, Emad Al-Azzam, and head of the UNHCR Executive Office in Irbid, Marjorie Cabrol, signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen cooperation in supporting employment and vocational development opportunities for both the local community and refugees residing in the city.

According to Jordan News Agency, during a meeting with the UNHCR delegation, Al-Azzam emphasized the importance of sustaining projects implemented in partnership between the municipality and the UN refugee agency. He highlighted the need for these projects to deliver a clear positive impact for both local residents and refugees in Irbid.

Al-Azzam noted that Irbid, one of Jordan’s oldest urban centers, has been a key destination for waves of migration throughout its history. Despite the pressures such migrations placed on infrastructure and municipal services, Irbid has long demonstrated hospitality in receiving and embracing refugees.

He stressed that cooperation with international partners is crucial for the municipality to meet the needs of the local community and ensure the inclusion of all groups in sustainable development.

Cabrol praised the municipality’s support for the “Economic Empowerment Center” in Tunis Park, also known as the Ecorama Hub, the first of its kind in Jordan. She expressed appreciation for the municipality’s efforts in facilitating the project’s implementation and noted that UNHCR will continue working with the municipality to ensure its sustainability.

The agreement aims to activate the Economic Empowerment Center project, designed as an integrated platform bringing together national and international institutions involved in promoting livelihoods. The project targets small business owners by helping promote their products and services, while also providing digital learning programs, career counseling, and professional development opportunities.