AMMAN — On Monday, the Jordanian House of
Representatives referred the bill to the Public Services and Transportation
Committee for ratification of the amended agreement on the rehabilitation,
expansion, and operation of Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA).
In his address to the parliament, Prime
Minister Bisher Al-Khasawneh emphasized the integrity, transparency, and
clarity of the rehabilitation agreement for the QAIA. He underscored the
government's commitment to the public interest, stating that the extension
proposal for the airport agreement was submitted due to its positive impact,
Al-Mamlaka TV reported.
Khasawneh confirmed that the agreement
underwent a thorough review to address financial settlements related to risks
and to mitigate the government's liability for any financial obligations to
funders in case of operational difficulties.
"We are working diligently to manage
state affairs as if we were at the beginning of the government's term, guided
by the constitutional timelines that are clear and rest in the hands of His
Majesty the King," stated Khasawneh, emphasizing the importance of
constitutional guidelines.
The amended agreement aims to strengthen the
government's position, enhance proposed settlements, and minimize risks
associated with airport operations. Khasawneh reiterated that the amendments
serve the state's interest and the general treasury.
The government submitted the amended agreement
to the House of Representatives under legal provisions and constitutional
requirements for substantial modifications. It believes these changes serve the
public interest, benefiting both the state and the general treasury. QAIA
stands as a successful example of a public-private partnership in Jordan.
The revised agreement addresses several key
aspects:
- Financial settlements: The agreement includes financial settlements that rectify any financial obligations and potential legal gaps. Notably, it completely exempts the Jordanian government from any direct financial liabilities related to the company’s commitments to financiers and creditors, even in the event of legal disputes.
- Cumulative losses and pandemic impact: The agreement effectively closes the door on cumulative losses resulting from crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. It also addresses expansion requirements necessary for the airport’s continued success as a symbol of achievement and progress.
- Government responsibility: By extending the agreement, the government aims to bolster its position and ensure favorable terms that provide guarantees and mitigate risks.
اضافة اعلانThe agreement will be between the Jordanian
government, represented by the Ministry of Transport (MoT), and the Airport
International Group (AIG). The original agreement for the rehabilitation,
expansion, and operation of QAIA was signed in May 2007, with subsequent
amendments in 2009, 2012 (twice), and 2014. The new amendment specifies an
initial duration of 30 years, subject to extension or termination as per the
agreement's provisions.
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