8 September 2026 | Amman, Jordan
Under the patronage of H.H. Sharifa Nofa Bint Nasser, the Association of Agricultural Research Institutions in the Near East and North Africa (AARINENA) participated in the Jordan Tourism Innovation and Resilience Forum, held on 8 September 2026 in Amman, Jordan.
The Forum brought together representatives of the public and private sectors, entrepreneurs, experts, and development stakeholders to explore how innovation, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and sustainable business practices can strengthen the competitiveness and resilience of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Discussions highlighted the growing role of technology and innovation in helping businesses adapt to changing economic and market conditions, while emphasizing the importance of partnerships, entrepreneurship, and stronger linkages between knowledge, innovation, and the private sector.
AARINENA’s participation provided an opportunity to exchange experiences across sectors and explore approaches relevant to agribusinesses, rural enterprises, and agriculture-linked value chains. Innovation and digital transformation can play an important role in strengthening these businesses, expanding market opportunities, and contributing to more resilient and sustainable local economies.
The Forum’s focus closely aligns with AARINENA’s efforts to promote innovation, resilient agrifood systems, entrepreneurship, and stronger research–private sector linkages across the NENA region. Through engagement in cross-sectoral platforms, AARINENA continues to foster partnerships and knowledge exchange that connect agricultural research and innovation with wider sustainable development opportunities.