President Zardari, King Abdullah reaffirm strategic ties, commitment to boost people-to-people contact

  • Leaders vow deeper bilateral cooperation across key sectors as high-level Jordanian delegation visit Aiwan-e-Sadr
  • Share stance on Gaza, reject displacement of Palestinians and call for coordinated regional and global diplomatic efforts

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari on Sunday received His Majesty King Abdullah II ibn Al-Hussein of Jordan at Aiwan-e-Sadr, marking a significant reaffirmation of the deep, time-tested ties between Pakistan.

The visit—accompanied by a high-level delegation—saw both sides underscore their shared commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation and coordinating closely on key regional and global challenges, particularly the worsening situation in Gaza, according to a statement issued from the Presidency.

His Majesty was accompanied by His Royal Highness Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad, Chief Advisor for Religious and Cultural Affairs and Personal Envoy; Mr Ayman Safadi, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates; and Major General Yousef Huneiti, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, Chairman PPP Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Senator Sherry Rehman were also present, the statement said.

During the meeting, the two leaders reviewed the full spectrum of Pakistan-Jordan relations and reaffirmed the fraternal bond rooted in shared history, values and regional outlook. They emphasized building on the strength of the relationship by enhancing political, economic and cultural engagement, and encouraging greater people-to-people contact.

The two sides also discussed regional and international developments, with a particular focus on the Middle East’s peace, stability and security. Both leaders agreed on the need for closer coordination in multilateral forums, as well as on expanding humanitarian and development cooperation.

On Palestine, President Zardari and His Majesty noted a clear convergence of views, reiterating their principled position on post-war Gaza. They firmly rejected any displacement of Palestinians and called for progress toward a Two-State solution, stressing the creation of an independent, sovereign, viable and contiguous State of Palestine on pre-June 1967 borders with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.

King Abdullah II expressed pride in the deep-rooted ties with Pakistan and reaffirmed Jordan’s desire to expand cooperation in diverse sectors. Both leaders expressed confidence in the future direction of Pakistan-Jordan relations and agreed to maintain close coordination on bilateral, regional and global issues.

The meeting was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar; Federal Minister for Climate Change Senator Musadik Malik; the Foreign Secretary, and the ambassadors of both countries.

Following the meeting, President Zardari conferred the Nishan-e-Pakistan on His Majesty King Abdullah II. In return, the King bestowed upon President Zardari the Wisam al-Nahdah al-Mursa‘ (Bejewelled Grand Cordon of Al Nahdah)—one of Jordan’s highest civil honours awarded to Heads of State and distinguished dignitaries.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, the service chiefs, cabinet members and diplomats attended the ceremony.

Later, a state banquet was hosted in honour of the visiting monarch at Aiwan-e-Sadr.

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