(Sukuk.net - Jordan Times) "We are committed to play a positive role in Jordan's economy besides servicing our clients in Jordan and the region," Sands said Wednesday during a meeting with the press.

He added that the Kingdom's economic performance is relatively well compared to other countries in the region and worldwide, noting that the bank estimates global economic growth this year at around 1 per cent.

Also yesterday, Prime Minister Nader Dahabi met with Sands and reviewed with him the government's measures to deal with the global financial crisis and future cooperation between the government and the bank.

When asked about the bank's credit extension, Sands said lending measures by the bank did not change and points out a new programme to provide funding for small and medium enterprises in Jordan.

Answering a question if Islamic banking principles have protected Islamic banks, Sands said that although prudent lending measures are available in Islamic and conventional banks, some Islamic banks have suffered liquidity problems because of the crisis.

Sands will be chairing the financial services summit which will be held on Thursday as part of his participation in the World Economic Forum which starts in the Dead Sea on Friday.

By Omar Obeidat
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