Hasan Dajah

In light of rapid international transformations, Jordanian-Chinese relations stand out as a distinguished model of robust bilateral ties built on mutual respect, shared interests and a future-oriented vision. These relations have witnessed remarkable development at the political, economic and cultural levels, elevating them to the level of a strategic partnership. This reflects the keenness of both countries' leaderships to broaden the horizons of cooperation in a way that serves the interests of both friendly nations and enhances stability and development in the region and the world.

From this perspective, the visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Jordan, scheduled for today acquires particular significance as a crucial political and diplomatic milestone in the growing bilateral relations between the two countries. This visit presents a new opportunity to strengthen the strategic partnership, intensify political coordination, and explore ways to expand cooperation in the economic, developmental and investment fields, in addition to addressing regional and international issues of common interest. The visit comes at a critical regional and international juncture, marked by profound shifts in the international balance of power and the emergence of a multipolar world order. This underscores the importance of the Jordanian-Chinese dialogue as a stabilizing factor for regional stability and an active contributor to strengthening international cooperation based on balance, mutual respect and non-interference in the internal affairs of states.

Politically, Jordanian-Chinese relations are built on a solid foundation of understanding and convergence of positions on numerous regional and international issues. The Jordanian and Chinese positions converge on supporting the two-state solution, the necessity of achieving a just and comprehensive peace in the Middle East, the importance of respecting the sovereignty of states and non-interference in their internal affairs, and joint efforts to combat terrorism and extremism.

Economically, relations between Jordan and China have witnessed remarkable development in recent years, with China becoming one of Jordan's most prominent trading partners. Trade volume between the two countries reached approximately $5.37 billion, a figure reflecting the expanding scope of commercial, industrial, and investment cooperation. Chinese companies are involved in several vital projects in the Kingdom, particularly in the fields of renewable energy, infrastructure, transportation, and communications, contributing to the support of the Jordanian economy and the achievement of sustainable development goals.

The economic partnership between the two countries acquires an additional strategic dimension within the framework of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to revive the historic Silk Road and enhance economic and trade connectivity between Asia, Africa and Europe. Jordan occupies a significant geographical position in this initiative, serving as a link between the East and West, and between North and South, making it a regionally important logistical and commercial hub. The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Jordanian and Chinese governments on jointly building the Belt and Road Initiative represents a qualitative step towards deepening this cooperation and opening new horizons for investment and development.

Culturally and educationally, Jordanian-Chinese relations are witnessing increasing development, reflecting both countries’ recognition of the importance of cultural exchange in fostering understanding between their peoples. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in teaching Chinese in Jordanian schools and universities, as part of efforts to enhance cultural exchange and prepare qualified personnel capable of engaging with the Chinese market and understanding Chinese culture. Scholarships and joint academic programmes have also contributed to strengthening scientific and intellectual interaction between the two sides.

In this context, the visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Jordan is expected to bolster cultural and educational cooperation, in addition to exploring ways to develop the economic and political partnership. The visit also presents an opportunity to exchange views on regional and international issues and to emphasize the role of dialogue and cooperation in addressing global challenges such as climate change, food security, and economic crises.

Jordanian-Chinese relations are not based solely on immediate interests, but rather on a shared vision for the future, seeking to build a long-term partnership capable of adapting to rapid international transformations. With China emerging as a major international power striving to enhance international peace and security, consolidate the principles of fair international governance, and support comprehensive development, Jordan finds in this partnership an important pillar for strengthening its regional and international role.

It can be said that Jordanian-Chinese relations represent a successful and advanced model of cooperation between countries, built on solid foundations of mutual respect, shared interests and complementary political, economic and cultural roles. With the continuation of high-level reciprocal visits, carrying significant political implications, and the activation of agreements and memoranda of understanding signed between the two countries, these relations confidently look forward to broader and more expansive horizons in the future. This development serves regional stability, strengthens efforts toward sustainable development and peace, and solidifies the position of Jordan and China as active strategic partners in a world moving toward multipolarity and international balance.

Hasan Dajah is professor of strategic studies at Al-Hussein Bin Talal University