Good news

Jordan has the potential to become a major hub for global outsourcing, according to A.T. Kearney Global Services Location Index. Among the top 50 countries screened for this purpose, Jordan ranked ninth, no small feat for a developing country surrounded by regional conflicts and challenged, like everybody else, by the global financial and economic downturn.

The country has been described as a “top performer”, enjoying one of the Middle East’s most favourable business climates and earning the privilege of being one of the most outstanding investment destinations in the region.

Such achievement did not come easy, but the country is financially sound, skilled people can be easily found and the business environment is most welcoming.

The country is doing well, that way, and it deserves commendation especially for achieving such high grades at a time when global and regional conditions are anything but stable and safe.

Yet there is still much to be done to complete the journey towards prosperity.

Poverty rates are still high and unemployment widespread. The road to social justice across the board has yet to be completed.

The continuing efforts to extend medical care to all Jordanians as a basic right is noteworthy, but incomplete.

Achievements have been done on the housing front. Much has also been done to provide work opportunities and fair wages. But there is a pressing need to lower taxes on the poor and the middle class. There can be no justification for levying sales tax on essentials.

As we bask in the glory of some achievements and enjoy the good standings, we must not forget the work that still needs to be done to help the underprivileged. An equitable society is a happy society.

jordantimes