Ali Abu al-Ragheb vs Guy Parmelin

Abu al-Ragheb's government initiated a comprehensive economic reform program, including privatization of state assets, tax reform, and trade liberalization. These measures were supported by the IMF and World Bank to boost growth.

Ali Abu al-Ragheb was appointed Prime Minister by King Abdullah II in June 2000. His appointment marked a shift toward technocratic governance, with a focus on economic reform and attracting foreign investment.

Abu al-Ragheb resigned in October 2003 after three years in office. His resignation followed the US-led invasion of Iraq, which strained Jordan's economy and security, and domestic criticism of his reform policies.

Parmelin was elected to the Swiss Federal Council on December 9, 2015, representing the Swiss People's Party (SVP). He took over the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports, later moving to the Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research in 2019.

As head of the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research from 2019, Parmelin managed Switzerland's economic response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including short-time work schemes, business loans, and support for research and innovation to mitigate economic damage.

Guy Parmelin served as President of the Swiss Confederation in 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic. He chaired the Federal Council and represented Switzerland abroad, while continuing his role as head of the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research.