Enhanced Iraq-Jordan ties a win-win situation

The latest developments in Iraqi-Jordanian relations, including the meeting between Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani and King Abdullah of Jordan in Munich in February, appear to signal a critical development toward bolstering relations between the two nations.
Against the backdrop of regional challenges, Iraq and Jordan can deepen their ties, particularly in the realms of economic cooperation and development initiatives. By embracing avenues for partnership, such as trade agreements and joint infrastructure projects, these two countries can unlock many opportunities not only for themselves but also for fostering stability and progress in the Middle East.
At the heart of this burgeoning relationship lies the potential for economic synergy. Iraq and Jordan boast diverse economies, with complementary strengths, making them natural partners. Iraq, with its abundant oil resources and burgeoning infrastructure needs, stands to benefit from Jordan’s expertise in sectors such as construction and transport.
Conversely, Jordan can tap into Iraq’s vast market potential and consumer base, presenting lucrative opportunities for Jordanian businesses to expand their reach. By fostering greater economic integration, both nations can diversify their economies, reduce dependency on volatile sectors and create a more conducive environment for investment and innovation.
Energy cooperation holds immense potential for Iraq and Jordan, particularly in light of recent developments like last month’s activation of the Jordanian-Iraqi electrical connection. Jordan’s ambitious vision to emerge as a regional energy hub aligns closely with Iraq’s vast energy resources and production capabilities. The activation of the electrical connection signifies a significant step toward realizing this vision, facilitating the exchange of power between the two countries and paving the way for greater energy integration in the region. Leveraging Jordan’s strategic geographic position, the connection enables the kingdom to serve as a conduit for energy transit between Iraq and neighboring Arab states, enhancing energy security and diversification efforts.
The operationalization of the Jordanian-Iraqi electrical connection on March 30 represents a tangible manifestation of the long-standing partnership between the two countries in the energy sector. By strengthening infrastructure linkages and promoting cross-border energy trade, Iraq and Jordan can harness their respective strengths to meet growing energy demands, enhance grid stability and promote sustainable development. Moreover, collaborative ventures in renewable energy, such as solar and wind power projects, can further diversify the energy mix and contribute to environmental sustainability goals.
In addition to economic and energy cooperation, Iraq and Jordan can also join forces to address common security challenges. The volatile geopolitical landscape of the Middle East underscores the importance of collaboration in tackling issues such as terrorism, extremism and cross-border threats. Through enhanced intelligence sharing, joint military exercises and border security initiatives, Iraq and Jordan can strengthen their defenses and mitigate security risks. By fostering a robust security partnership, both nations can contribute to regional stability, safeguarding their citizens and interests against emerging threats. 

Security cooperation between Iraq and Jordan is paramount in the face of shared security challenges.

Dr. Majid Rafizadeh

Economically, the two countries possess significant potential for collaboration across various sectors. One area ripe for cooperation is trade and investment. By fostering an environment conducive to cross-border trade, they can capitalize on their geographic proximity and strategic location as gateways to regional markets. Facilitating trade through streamlined customs procedures, infrastructure development and trade promotion initiatives can spur economic growth and job creation on both sides. Moreover, joint ventures in sectors such as energy, agriculture and manufacturing can further enhance economic ties, diversify revenue streams and foster innovation and technology transfer.
Infrastructure development presents another avenue for collaboration. Both Iraq and Jordan grapple with infrastructure deficits in areas such as transport, energy and water resources. By pooling resources and expertise, the two nations can embark on joint infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing connectivity, promoting regional integration and improving the quality of life for their citizens. Projects such as cross-border pipelines, highways and railways can facilitate the movement of goods, people and services, unlocking new trade corridors and stimulating economic activity along the way.
Finally, security cooperation between Iraq and Jordan is paramount in the face of shared security challenges. Both countries confront threats from terrorist organizations, insurgent groups and transnational criminal networks operating in the region. Collaborative efforts in intelligence sharing, counterterrorism operations and border security measures are essential to combat these threats effectively. By coordinating patrols along their shared borders, exchanging information on extremist activities and conducting joint training exercises, Iraq and Jordan can improve their capacity to detect, deter and proactively respond to security threats.
Additionally, cooperation in cybersecurity and counter-radicalization initiatives can further bolster their collective resilience against evolving security risks. For instance, cooperation in defense and military affairs can strengthen bilateral ties and contribute to regional stability. Joint military exercises, training programs and defense equipment procurement initiatives can enhance interoperability and readiness, enabling both nations to respond more effectively to emerging security challenges. By fostering a culture of cooperation and coordination in security matters, Iraq and Jordan can build trust and confidence, laying the groundwork for enduring partnerships in safeguarding their shared interests and promoting peace and stability in the region.
In summary, the latest developments between Jordan and Iraq can set the stage for a new chapter of cooperation and partnership between the two nations. Through concerted efforts in economic, security and energy cooperation, they can unlock many opportunities for mutual benefit and regional stability. By harnessing their collective strengths and resources, both countries can also chart a course toward a future characterized by enhanced security and shared prosperity for their citizens.

• Dr. Majid Rafizadeh is a Harvard-educated Iranian American political scientist.
X: @Dr_Rafizadeh