Cairo, December 3, 2024 – Dr. Mohammed Zakaria Qamh, the World Bank Energy Team Leader in Jordan and responsible for the regional electricity interconnection and exchange file among Arab countries, expressed his pride and happiness after being honored by the Arab Ministerial Council for Electricity during its 15th session held in Cairo. The session was chaired by Jordan, represented by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, in the presence of Minister Dr. Saleh Al-Kharabsheh.

In a statement following the honor, Dr. Qamh emphasized the significance of this moment, which witnessed the signing of two agreements for the Arab Common Electricity Market under the auspices of the Arab League. He described these agreements as a historic milestone, achieved after more than 15 years of continuous support from the World Bank to enhance regional cooperation in the energy sector.

Dr. Qamh expressed his gratitude for the recognition presented by Minister Dr. Saleh Al-Kharabsheh and acknowledged the joint efforts of Arab countries in developing the energy sector and achieving tangible progress in electricity interconnection and energy exchange.

He underscored that the Arab Common Electricity Market is a top priority for the World Bank due to its critical role in promoting economic sustainability and ensuring clean and affordable energy sources.

Dr. Qamh further explained that Jordan's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources places strategic importance on electricity interconnection with neighboring countries as part of its economic modernization vision. This interconnection aims to secure the supply of clean energy. He highlighted progress in discussions with Egypt and Saudi Arabia to enhance transmission lines and increase electricity exchange based on economic principles, as well as ongoing efforts to expand connections with Iraq and Palestine. These efforts, he noted, will enable all countries in the region to benefit from the exchange of clean energy at competitive prices.