Jordan swears in new government

Jordan’s new Prime Minister Hani Mulki has formed his government to prepare for legislative elections following the dissolution of parliament, the royal palace announces.

The 65-year-old, who has held several ministerial posts, is expected to push for business-friendly policies to revive Jordan’s lagging economy.

Jordan's new Prime Minister Hani Mulki speaks to the media after the swearing-in ceremony for Jordan's new cabinet at the Royal Palace in Amman on June 1, 2016. (AFP/KHALIL MAZRAAWI)
Jordan’s new Prime Minister Hani Mulki speaks to the media after the swearing-in ceremony for Jordan’s new cabinet at the Royal Palace in Amman on June 1, 2016. (AFP/KHALIL MAZRAAWI)

Trained in engineering, Mulki has served as adviser to King Abdullah and ambassador to Cairo, as well as minister for water, energy, foreign affairs and industry.

He was also deeply involved in negotiations with Israel that led to a peace treaty between the two countries in 1994, and in coordinating ties with Israel after the deal, leading to charges from some in the Arab world that he will be overly friendly toward the Jewish State.

Mulki will also hold the defense portfolio.

The king swore in the new cabinet of 28 ministers, among them 17 newcomers including four women.

Several key posts are unchanged, including Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh, Interior Minister Salamah Hammad and Finance Minister Omar Malhas, a former investment banker.

— AFP and Times of Israel staff

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