Ammon News - AMMONNEWS - Prime Minister Hani Al Mulki said that government is committed to the directives of His Majesty King Abdullah II the to ensure that implementation of financial reforms next year would not affect middle- and low-income families.

During a meeting with representatives of the industrial sector at the Jordan Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, he said that the government will deal in a transparent manner with decisions it takes, adding that these decisions will be announced clearly.

"It is too early to talk about the steps that will be adopted by the government regarding the economic reform program, especially that the budget will be approved by the Cabinet in mid November and will be presented to the Lower House of Parliament," the prime minister added.

He said the government's vision on the program is still under discussion and that there will be a dialogue with the industrial sector in the interest of the country and the national economy.

On raising taxes, Al Mulki said that the government is currently holding discussions with the International Monetary Fund delegation that is currently visiting the Kingdom, adding that the government has not adopted any measures yet in this regard.

On free trade agreements signed with a number of countries, Al Mulki said the government will revisit these agreements, noting that the minister of industry will pay a visit to Turkey later this month to discuss mechanisms of implementing the investment side of the free trade agreement with Turkey.

Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply Yaroub Qudah highlighted the importance of the industrial sector for economic growth, adding this sector is the most important tool to increase Gross Domestic product through exports and expanding the production base.

President of the Jordan Chamber of Industry Adnan Abul Ragheb said the industrial sector has made, despite the challenges facing it to, major contributions to economic and social development.

*Petra