H.R.H. Prince Faisal Bin Al Hussein recently sponsored an event celebrating the Civil Defense department’s reception of a number of state of the art ambulances, and advanced communication equipment, both presented by Chicago as part of the twinning agreement between Amman and Chicago.
The celebration was attended by the Director General of the Civil Defense, General Abdullah Al Hamadneh, the Mayor of Amman, Engineer Omar Maani, American ambassador to Amman, Stephen Beecroft, and the Mayor of Chicago, Richard M. Daley.
During his speech, the Director General of the Civil Defense pointed out that Jordan holds a unique position amongst cities, thanks to the astuteness of its Hashemite leadership, resulting in positive relationships based on mutual respect with different cities of the world. He added, “We share a history of strong relationships with the United States, leading to the fruition of various developmental projects.”
General Al Hamadneh affirmed that the long-term, successful, and collaborative relations between American and Jordanian agencies have led to the establishing of various programs and activities, and to constant support in training, preparation, and the exchange of experiences. All of this has played a part in increasing the efficiency of the ranks, particularly in handling hazardous substances, as well as rescue operations.
From his end, the American ambassador to Amman expressed his hope that Chicago’s gift would help realize the humanitarian message of the Civil Defense, especially in the field of emergency services and human safety. He indicated that this initiative is a link in the chain of the constructive cooperation between the two friendly governments.
Concluding the celebratory event, Prince Faisal and the attendees were given a tour during which they viewed the vehicles and equipment that comprised five ambulances, two portable sterilization units, and various communications equipment.
It is worth noting that the cities of Amman and Chicago signed a twinning agreement, as part of the sister cities agreement, in June 2004. The agreement aims at expanding cultural, economic, social, and trade relationships between the two cities in the fields of tourism, education, science, technology, sports, and health.
This celebration came on the side lines of the second US-Arab Cities Forum which recently took place in Amman, with the participation of Arab mayors and local leaderships, in cooperation with the city of Chicago.