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We begin with Jordan’s culinary traditions, exploring sustainable practices where nothing goes to waste and making Jordan a leader in Levantine cuisine. Then leads into the evolution of textiles and fashion—from traditional garments to modern innovations by Jordanian designers. Finally, we highlight Jordan’s humanitarian efforts in refugee camps, showcasing architecture students’ projects to improve refugee living conditions. These segments celebrate Jordan's commitment to culture, resilience, and progress.

【Reflection】

The panel discussion titled “Jordan: Heart of the Levant – A Journey of Sustainable Heritage and Innovation”, presented by The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan at the Theme Weeks of EXPO 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, featured Dr. Ayham Dalal, Assistant Professor and researcher at the German University in Cairo. The session explored Jordan’s rich cultural history, sustainable traditions, and innovative approaches to preserving heritage.

Dr. Dalal began by situating Jordan geographically as a crossroads between Asia, Africa, and Europe. This strategic location has made Jordan a melting pot of civilizations including Persian, Assyrian, Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Islamic, and Ottoman cultures. This diverse heritage is reflected in Jordan’s culinary traditions, architecture, crafts, and way of life.

The discussion highlighted Jordan’s ancient relationship with food, tracing back to 14,000 years ago, when some of the earliest evidence of bread-making was discovered in the region. Food, in Jordan, is not just sustenance but a symbol of hospitality, social bonding, and cultural continuity. Traditional practices such as farming, foraging, and cooking with local, seasonal ingredients are seen as vital to sustainable living.

Jordan’s commitment to sustainability also extends to its architectural and urban development. Traditional Jordanian architecture utilizes local materials such as stone and mud, designed to harmonize with the environment. Dr. Dalal emphasized the importance of reviving and modernizing these traditional construction methods to meet current sustainability challenges while preserving cultural identity.

A key theme was the integration of innovation with heritage preservation. Jordan is actively promoting eco-tourism, sustainable agriculture, and community-based heritage projects to both support local economies and protect the environment. Initiatives include restoring historic sites, supporting craft artisans, and encouraging sustainable tourism that respects cultural and ecological balance.

The panel concluded by calling for global cooperation and cultural exchange to address shared challenges such as climate change, urbanization, and loss of cultural heritage. Dr. Dalal stressed that sustainable development in Jordan is deeply rooted in ancient wisdom and traditions that are adaptable to modern contexts.

In essence, Jordan offers the world a model where history, culture, and innovation coexist to create a resilient and sustainable society. The country’s rich legacy of hospitality, craftsmanship, and environmental harmony serves as inspiration for global audiences navigating the complexities of the 21st century.

【Post EXPO Initiatives】

Following the inspiring panel “Jordan: Heart of the Levant” at EXPO 2025, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is expected to continue and expand its commitment to sustainability, heritage preservation, and innovation.

One key initiative will likely focus on the revitalization of local crafts and traditional industries. By supporting artisans and promoting handmade products both domestically and internationally, Jordan can empower communities economically while preserving intangible cultural heritage.

Jordan may also advance sustainable tourism that highlights its rich cultural and natural assets—such as Petra, Wadi Rum, and eco-lodges—offering authentic experiences that balance environmental protection with community development. By strengthening eco-tourism and heritage tourism, Jordan can position itself as a leader in responsible travel.

In architecture and urban planning, Jordan is likely to invest in reviving traditional construction methods—such as using local stone and mud—which can reduce environmental impact and help communities adapt to climate change. Combining ancient wisdom with modern technologies could make Jordan a model for sustainable urban living.

Education and knowledge-sharing will also play a central role. Jordan can create international exchange programs, academic partnerships, and digital platforms to share its experiences with global audiences and learn from others.

In essence, Jordan’s post-EXPO strategy will likely seek to blend tradition and innovation, ensuring that heritage is not only preserved but actively used to build a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive future for its people and the world.