On 21 October 2026, Jordan and Saudi Arabia took a significant step toward enhancing their bilateral ties by signing a revised protocol aimed at restructuring their Supreme Coordination Council. This agreement was reached during discussions in Riyadh, attended by Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan. The revitalized council will be positioned to deepen cooperation between the two nations under the guidance of King Abdullah II of Jordan and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation
The newly signed protocol is designed to enhance the role of the Supreme Coordination Council in institutionalizing cooperation between Jordan and Saudi Arabia. This council replaces the Jordanian-Saudi Joint Committee and aims to ensure systematic collaboration across various sectors. The foreign ministers from both countries will co-head the council’s general secretariat, overseeing activities such as the preparation for meetings and the coordination of operations involving affiliated committees and working groups.
Security and Regional Stability
In their discussions, Safadi reiterated Jordan’s strong support for Saudi Arabia in addressing threats posed by the Houthi group. He emphasized Jordan’s commitment to the kingdom’s stability, security, and sovereignty, while condemning any attacks aimed at civilians and critical infrastructure. These actions, he noted, are in direct violation of international law and undermine Saudi Arabia’s national security.
Additionally, the talks covered broader regional issues, including efforts to de-escalate ongoing tensions and mitigate their international implications. Both ministers underscored the importance of adherence to international law, fostering good-neighborly relations, and upholding freedom of navigation in critical maritime passages like the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
Economic Collaboration and Growth
On the economic front, trade between Jordan and Saudi Arabia has seen impressive growth, exceeding $4 billion in 2025. This trade accounts for approximately 14% of Jordan’s total trade volume, solidifying Saudi Arabia as the kingdom’s second-largest trading partner. Moreover, Saudi investments in Jordan have reached around $16 billion, spanning sectors such as transport, tourism, and financial services. The influx of Saudi tourists to Jordan has also witnessed a 14% rise, reflecting an increasing economic interdependence between the two nations.
The signing of the amended protocol is expected to provide extra momentum for bilateral cooperation, reinforcing both countries’ commitment to enhancing relations. Continued dialogue and coordination will address both regional and international matters of mutual concern, paving the way for a more robust partnership that fosters stability and growth in the region.
Through these enhanced efforts, Jordan and Saudi Arabia aim to solidify a collaborative framework that not only strengthens their bilateral ties but also promotes peace, security, and economic development within their respective borders. As both countries navigate complex regional dynamics, their commitment to mutual support and collaboration will be key to achieving long-term stability and prosperity.