Amman: The Jordanian and Japanese governments have signed memoranda of understanding and a grant agreement valued at 1.334 billion Japanese yen, approximately $8.7 million, to support the establishment of a SCADA water supply system in Ma'an governorate. This initiative is under the auspices of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

According to Jordan News Agency, the memoranda were signed by Jordan's Minister of Planning and International Cooperation, Zeina Toukan, and Japanese Ambassador to Amman, Asari Hideki. The grant agreement was signed by Chief Representative of JICA Jordan, Morihata Shingo, and witnessed by Jordan's Minister of Water and Irrigation, Raed Abu Soud. The grant aims to develop operational and management systems of water supply facilities in Ma'an by installing SCADA systems and rehabilitating existing facilities, thereby improving the quality of water supply services and reducing water loss in the southern governorate.

Toukan expressed gratitude to Japan's government and people for their support of Jordan's development priorities, highlighting the significant value Jordan places on its bilateral relations with Japan. She emphasized the historic ties and ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

Japanese Ambassador Asari Hideki reiterated his government's commitment to continue providing financial and technical support to Jordan in various fields, contributing to the strengthening of bilateral relations. He noted that such programs would aid in developing Jordan's water sector and praised the Kingdom's efforts in economic and political reforms.

Morihata Shingo highlighted the importance of the project, given Jordan's status as one of the countries with limited water resources. He also mentioned that JICA is currently implementing a technical cooperation project to enhance water loss management in the southern governorates, aimed at building the capabilities of water engineers and technicians.