Paris:Jordan and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have taken a significant step toward facilitating trade by agreeing to enhance their cooperation on product standards, technical regulations, and vehicle conformity. This collaboration aims to strengthen trade links between Jordan and the GCC markets.
According to Jordan News Agency, the Jordan Standards and Metrology Organization (JSMO) and the GCC Standardization Organization (GSO) have signed a memorandum of understanding. This agreement focuses on quality infrastructure, including standardization, metrology, and conformity assessment, and includes specific cooperation in vehicle conformity assessment to ensure compliance with technical and safety standards.
The memorandum was signed during the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Annual Meeting in Paris, held from September 28 to October 2. The event gathered national standards bodies, policymakers, experts, and representatives from various sectors to discuss how international standards can address rapid changes in technology, economy, and the environment.
The meeting, themed "Building Trust in a Changing World," highlighted topics such as artificial intelligence, digital transformation, cybersecurity, sustainability, and climate adaptation. It also explored the future of quality management systems and the role of standards in promoting sustainable development.
JSMO engaged in bilateral meetings with ISO member countries and other organizations to discuss cooperation in quality infrastructure and the development of standards that keep pace with technological and economic advancements. The meeting also resulted in the adoption of the "Paris Declaration," which emphasizes the importance of international standards in strengthening resilience and climate adaptation.
This year's gathering marked the 60th anniversary of ISO's Committee on Developing Country Matters (DEVOID). Discussions focused on increasing the participation of developing countries in international standardization and enhancing access to global expertise and technical knowledge, as outlined in the 2026-2030 Action Plan.
JSMO's involvement in the ISO meeting is part of Jordan's efforts to reinforce its role in global standardization and ensure that its national standards align with international developments. The ISO currently comprises 177 national standards bodies, working to support innovation, improve quality, and tackle global challenges.