ISLAMABAD: The full-fledged official visit of His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan to Pakistan has concluded with a new approach to high-level diplomacy and practical cooperation. This visit, which is taking place after 21 years, is being considered as a catalyst to take the relations between the two countries to broader defense and diplomatic cooperation in the near future.
Important meetings with Pakistani leadership
The meetings with President Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif covered a wide range of topics. The two countries agreed that:
- Economic and trade cooperation will be enhanced on a priority basis
- Joint projects will be launched in the fields of health, investment, and vocational training
- Defense relations will be further strengthened on an institutional basis
Joint position on the situation in the region
Expressing deep concern over the Gaza crisis, the two leaders adopted a position that the effective role of the international community is indispensable for a ceasefire and humanitarian assistance. Both countries emphasized that there is no justification for the forced displacement of Palestinian citizens.
Practical activities in the defense sector
King Abdullah II watched with interest the Pakistani demonstration of technology, weapons and battlefield expertise. During the fire and maneuver exercise, he was briefed on the defense creativity, which he described as “very impressive”.
Cultural and educational partnership
Several important documents were exchanged during the visit, including:
- Framework for cultural cooperation
- Collaboration of media institutions
- Establishment of Pakistan Studies and Urdu Chairs at the University of Jordan
These initiatives will play a central role in strengthening people-to-people and educational ties between the two countries.
Exchange of honors
In a ceremony held at the Presidential Palace, President Zardari conferred Pakistan’s highest civilian honor on the King of Jordan, while Jordan presented special honors to the President of Pakistan and the Army Chief, which symbolizes the mutual trust between the two countries.
At the end of the visit, both countries clarified that relations would be further strengthened in the defence, diplomatic and social sectors in the future.
