Oct. 6--AMMAN -- His Majesty King Abdullah on Sunday singled out economic challenges as the main concern of authorities, promising measures to help citizens cope with the ramifications of the global crisis including an imminent increase in the minimum wage and salaries of civil servants.

"The economy still tops our priorities, especially its social dimension, due to the economic challenges that resulted from rising international prices. In spite of all the obstacles and challenges, Jordan is advancing on the right path, towards a comprehensive awakening that is the essence of our vision and its ultimate goal. Thus, the government is committed to implementing a set of policies, in priority areas, in cooperation with the legislative and judicial authorities," said the King in the Speech from the Throne inaugurating the second ordinary session of the 15th Parliament (see full text of speech).

Following an increase in salaries of civil servants at the start of 2008, the King said blue-collar workers will also benefit from the Social Safety Net, noting that the government will raise the minimum wage, which currently stands at JD115 per month.

With inflation this year hitting a record of 13.5 per cent, King Abdullah noted civil servants will also witness a pay hike pegged to inflation.

"Among the most important measures required of the government in this regard are linking salaries to inflation averages, increasing the allowance for improving living standards to protect the workforce and retirees, and firmly establishing justice on the basis of merit. To implement this step, I have directed the government to raise salaries as of the beginning of next year, so that this increase will be confirmed in the budget for 2009. The minimum wage also will be raised in a way that provides a decent living for a large sector of citizens."

He also highlighted other pieces of legislation that come within the economic reform package.

"My government will present to your esteemed Parliament a new tax law that would motivate promising sectors and contribute to enhancing the investment environment," the King told a joint session of Parliament, also attended by Cabinet members and the newly appointed Royal Court Chief Nasser Lozi.

"At the top of national priorities, there stands, in the medium range, economic reform and the completion of a strong national economy that reflects positively on Jordanians' standards of living.