AMMAN — Venezuelan Ambassador to Jordan Omar Vielma Osuna on Saturday underlined the important role Jordan plays in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East.

 

In an interview with the Jordan News Agency, Petra, on the occasion of Venezuela’s National Day, Osuna said that both Venezuela and Jordan support the Palestinian cause and efforts to achieve peace in the region.

 

He called for opening new avenues to end wars in the Middle East.

 

Speaking about bilateral ties, the ambassador said: “This year, we celebrate the 71st anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between the two countries, relations that are distinguished and based on mutual respect.”

 

He noted that the two countries recently signed an agreement to waive visa requirements for holders of diplomatic passports and is awaiting logistical arrangements to sign further agreements in the fields of cultural cooperation, tourism, political consultations and agriculture.

 

Osuna added that discussions are also underway to reduce export costs for Jordanian products to Venezuela and vice versa, in addition to exploring the possibility of launching a direct flight route between the two countries to reduce travel costs and enhances the economic bridge between them.

 

Osuna said that there is a Jordanian community in Venezuela, many of whom are influential merchants who play a vital role in the country’s economic life.

 

He added that there is also a Venezuelan community in Jordan, estimated at around 1,600 people.

 

The diplomat noted that Venezuela is celebrating 214 years since its declaration of independence in 1811, a national occasion that reaffirms the country’s identity and sovereignty.

 

The ambassador highlighted the economic growth and development his country is witnessing, supported by reforms, national productive capacities, and infrastructure improvements, with a focus on education, healthcare, and technology.

 

He pointed out that Venezuela has achieved 100 per cent self-sufficiency and holds one of the largest oil reserves in the world, positioning it as a “strategic” player in the global energy market.