Jordanian Prime Minister Omar Razzaz, patronized on Monday, June 24, 2019, the launch of the 18th General Conference and the Executive Council of the 56th session of the Arab Towns Organization (ATO) in Amman.

Secretary-General of the ATO, Ahmad Subaih bestowed on Razzaz, who is deputizing for His Majesty King Abdullah II, a shield of honor for the gracious Hashemite patronage.

Amman's Mayor, Yousef Shawarbeh said, "I am pleased and honored to welcome you to our city that opens its arms to embrace the 18th General Conference of the Arab Towns Organizations. Throughout decades, Amman has been a key partner in this reputed Arab organization and for all fraternal Arab member towns."

"Today, we are looking forward in this conference to contributing to strengthen the role of the organization through building new partnerships with high profile international institutions," he explained, adding that "We all seek to improve and develop our Arab towns and be involved in upgrading the local administration for the prosperity of mankind."

He stated, "We are aware that the world is entering an epoch that requires a new approach, of which we need to adapt our work and projects with. Its main focus is on the technological transformation that provides services to towns inhabitants that is considered the most pressing task and requires attention from our institutions in the Arab world because it affects the direct everyday services provided to citizens."

He highlighted the importance of developing regulations of the pertaining institutions and services and the ability to promptly work on the infrastructure that could improve the living standards in the towns, including public transportation, city planning and preserving their architectural heritage, as well as exploring new horizons in teaching, digital economy, participatory in public work and issues.