Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait pledged $2.5 billion aid to support Jordan's economy after massive protests in the country threatened its stability, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing a joint statement.
The monetary aid, announced after a meeting in Mecca, includes a deposit in Jordan's central bank, funds to support the country's budget for the next five years, World Bank guarantees and development projects.
Jordan's citizens staged mass protests in recent weeks over high unemployment, rising prices and plans to broaden the income tax base in the country; a reminder of the Arab Spring uprising in 2011 that toppled leaders across the region.
Hani Mulki stepped down as the country's prime minister June 4 and was replaced by former World Bank economist and Education Minister Omar al-Razzaz, who vowed to withdraw the tax bill in an attempt to defuse the crisis.
The tax bill is part of an economic reform plan aimed to reduce Jordan's public debt and is backed by the International Monetary Fund.
