Pakistan, Jordan seek ‘new strategic dimension’ in ties as King Abdullah II visits Islamabad

Pakistan and Jordan reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen strategic and economic cooperation and expand mutually beneficial engagement, while maintaining principled positions on post-war Gaza, including “zero tolerance” for displacement of Palestinians.

The commitment was made during a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Jordan’s King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein on Saturday at the Prime Minister’s House in Islamabad. The two leaders discussed ways to further deepen bilateral relations and explored opportunities for enhanced cooperation in trade, investment, health, science and technology, education and the defense sector.

The meeting also featured an extensive exchange of views on regional security and ongoing peace initiatives. Both sides agreed to step up coordination among the eight Arab Islamic countries working with the United States on the Gaza ceasefire and Gaza peace plan signed in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt.

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Prime Minister Shehbaz welcomed the Jordanian monarch’s visit, describing it as a testament to the enduring friendship between the two nations. He also briefed the King on the latest regional developments, particularly those relating to Afghanistan and India.

The two leaders reaffirmed their shared position on post-war Gaza, including a zero-tolerance stance on any displacement of Palestinians. King Abdullah II praised Pakistan’s consistent support for Jordan’s role in regional stability and its humanitarian efforts during the Gaza conflict and in the post-war phase. He also acknowledged Pakistan’s role in maintaining peace and stability in the region.

After the meeting, both leaders witnessed an MoU exchange ceremony in media, culture and education. The Prime Minister later hosted a banquet in honor of the visiting monarch and his delegation.

Later, in a speech at X, the prime minister described the engagement as a “warm and cordial meeting”, noting that both sides were exploring opportunities to expand cooperation with a stronger focus on trade, investment, education and technology.

“Delighted to host and meet my brother His Majesty King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein this evening. It was an honor to receive him in Islamabad earlier today,” he wrote.

The two countries also reaffirmed their commitment to regional peace and stability, with particular emphasis on the implementation of the Gaza peace plan signed in Sharm el Sheikh.

The prime minister said he briefed the Jordanian monarch on the latest developments in Pakistan’s neighborhood and Islamabad’s efforts to maintain peace and security in the region.

The meeting also witnessed the signing of four memorandums of understanding and agreements covering media, culture and education.

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“Alhamdulilah, Pakistan and Jordan are moving forward together to achieve our common goals of peace, progress and prosperity,” Prime Minister Shehbaz concluded.

Earlier, King Abdullah II arrived in Islamabad for a two-day official visit. On landing at Nur Khan Air Base, he was received by President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz. Climate Change Senator Musadik Malik, Education Minister Wajiha Qamar, First Lady Asifa Bhutto Zardari and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari were also present to welcome the Jordanian King. He was accompanied by a high-level delegation.

This is the first visit by a Jordanian ruler to Pakistan in more than two decades. The trip, which was conducted at the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz, is aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation.

In a ceremonial show of respect, Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Thunder jets escorted the royal aircraft as it entered Pakistani airspace and continued up to Islamabad.

In a statement, President Zardari said the visit would add “a new strategic dimension to bilateral ties,” noting that Pakistan-Jordan relations are rooted in “historic brotherhood, mutual trust and shared values.”