WASHINGTON, D.C., December 17, 2002—Peace Corps Director Gaddi H. Vasquez arrived in Amman, Jordan, yesterday as part of a pre-scheduled visit to countries in the region. His visit comes shortly after the Peace Corps’ November 23, 2002, decision to temporarily suspend the program in Jordan. During the Director’s trip, he will be meeting with His Majesty King Abdullah II, government officials, and Peace Corps staff in Jordan.

The Jordanian government and communities are strong supporters of the service Peace Corps volunteers provide for their country. “I am here to thank His Majesty King Abdullah for his support of Peace Corps and his continued dedication to the work of the volunteers. The Peace Corps looks forward to returning volunteers and expanding the program in Jordan in the near future.” said Director Vasquez.

Peace Corps began service in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in 1997. Since then, 216 Volunteers have worked in the areas of community development initiatives, micro-enterprise development for women, environmental management and awareness, and teaching English as a foreign language.

Since 1961, more than 165,000 volunteers have served in the Peace Corps, working in such diverse fields as education, health and HIV/AIDS education, information technology, business development, the environment, and agriculture. Peace Corps volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a two-year commitment.