China and Jordan signed in Amman Monday four economic cooperation protocols in a bid to further promote bilateral relations.

The executive program of cultural and scientific cooperation between the two countries over years of 2003 till 2006 was inked by visiting Deputy Chinese Cultural Minister Chang Keren and Jordanian Planning and International Cooperation Minister Basem Awadallah.

The agreement provisions cooperation in education, culture, archeology, health and media between China and Jordan.

Chinese Ambassador to Jordan Luo Xingwu and Awadallah signed another technical and economic cooperation agreement, under which the Chinese government will supply Jordan with US$3.6 million interest-free loans to help the country overcome economic crisis.

According to the other two documents, the Chinese government will provide funds for Jordan to conduct infrastructure projects in the country's southern city of Ma'an, and provide 1,000 tons of rice and some medical equipment for Jordan.

Officials from both sides expressed their hope that the cooperation between the two countries in different fields will be further strengthened and expanded.

(Xinhua News Agency December 16, 2003)