In a significant diplomatic development, Pakistan and Jordan have infused new energy into their seven-decade-long relationship during King Abdullah II's two-day official visit to Islamabad. The Jordanian monarch held extensive talks with both President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, marking a pivotal moment in bilateral relations.
Strengthening Strategic Partnerships
King Abdullah II reaffirmed Jordan's commitment to deepening cooperation across multiple sectors, including strategic affairs, economic collaboration, cultural exchanges, and defense ties. The discussions signaled a mutual desire to transform the traditional friendship into a more robust and future-oriented framework that benefits both nations.
During meetings with PM Shehbaz Sharif, both leaders agreed to intensify joint efforts in several key areas. Trade, investment, tourism, education, technology, and defense collaboration emerged as priority sectors where both countries can leverage their complementary strengths for mutual benefit.
Regional Stability and Counter-Terrorism
The Jordanian monarch emphasized the importance of continued coordination at bilateral, regional, and global forums to promote peace and stability in the Middle East. He extended heartfelt condolences over recent terrorist attacks in Pakistan, reaffirming Jordan's unwavering solidarity with Islamabad in countering terrorism and violent extremism.
A substantial portion of the discussions focused on the ongoing crisis in Gaza. King Abdullah called for full adherence to ceasefire agreements, increased humanitarian access, and urgent relief efforts. He acknowledged Pakistan's influential diplomatic role at the UN Security Council and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), praising Islamabad's consistent support for Gaza ceasefire agreements.
Both nations reaffirmed their shared stance on establishing an independent Palestinian state under the two-state solution. The King also warned against unilateral actions in the West Bank, including settlement expansion and threats to holy sites.
Concrete Outcomes and Future Collaboration
The visit yielded tangible results through several signed agreements. These included:
- A cooperation pact between Jordan Radio and Television Corporation and Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation
- An agreement with Pakistan Television Corporation
- A Memorandum of Understanding to establish a Chair for Urdu Language and Pakistani Studies at the University of Jordan
- A comprehensive cultural cooperation program
In a ceremonial exchange, President Asif Ali Zardari conferred Nishan-e-Pakistan upon King Abdullah II, while the King bestowed upon President Zardari the Wisam al-Nahdah al-Mursa' (Bejewelled Grand Cordon of Al Nahdah), an honor reserved for Heads of State and distinguished dignitaries.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the visit as a defining moment in reinvigorating Pakistan-Jordan ties, noting that it would pave the way for broader cooperation and institutionalized engagements between the two nations.
Expert Perspectives on Bilateral Relations
Former diplomats characterized King Abdullah's visit as highly significant in the evolution of Pakistan-Jordan relations. Ambassador A M Shahid, a former senior diplomat, emphasized the visit's importance given the fraternal and multidimensional ties between the two countries.
He noted that Pakistan's active diplomacy at global forums, particularly in the UN and OIC, and its growing leadership on issues concerning the Muslim world has enhanced its international stature. "Muslim majority countries are increasingly looking toward Pakistan for defense support and broader cooperation," he added.
Ambassador Waheed Ahmad highlighted the historically warm relationship between Pakistan and Jordan, particularly in strategic, defense, and cultural spheres. He revealed that Pakistan has long provided training, advisory input, and protection assistance to Jordan's defense and security apparatus.
The former diplomat also noted that Pakistani fertilizer, textile, and other industries operate successfully in Jordan and enjoy various concessions, reflecting deep economic linkages. "Jordan continues to follow defense policies originally crafted with Pakistani support, which is a testament to the closeness of the relationship," he observed.
Both experts expressed confidence that the royal visit would accelerate cooperation and open new avenues for partnership, cementing the already strong framework of MoUs and institutional exchanges between the two nations.
