BEIJING, Nov 17 (APP): His Majesty King Abdullah II’s recent official visit to Pakistan – the first by a Jordanian monarch in 21 years – transcends mere diplomatic protocol and it signifies a pivotal juncture in revitalizing the strategic partnership between the two nations, a bond deeply rooted in decades of fraternal ties and shared values.
Prof. Cheng Xizhong, Senior Research Fellow at the Charhar Institute,a non-governmental Chinese think-tank on diplomacy and international studies based in Beijing said in a statement on Monday.
He said that the grandeur of the reception—from the escort by Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Thunder fighters to the joint welcoming of President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif at Nur Khan Airbase – underscored Pakistan’s profound regard for this bilateral relationship.
Beyond the warmth of ceremonial gestures, the visit yielded substantial and tangible outcomes, most notably the signing of the key agreements spanning media, culture and education.
The establishment of Chairs for Urdu and Pakistan Studies at the University of Jordan, coupled with cooperation pacts between state-owned broadcasters, will nurture people-to-people connectivity—the cornerstone of sustainable diplomatic relations.
On the economic front, discussions centered on expanding collaboration in trade, investment, and science and technology—sectors pivotal to both nations’ developmental aspirations.
Pakistan’s burgeoning technology industry and Jordan’s proven expertise in regional trade networks present mutually complementary strengths, laying the groundwork for enhanced economic engagement.
Defense cooperation, a longstanding pillar of their bilateral ties, also received renewed focus, reflecting shared security concerns amid the region’s lingering volatility, he added.
What truly elevates the significance of this visit is its pronounced regional dimension—particularly in addressing the Gaza crisis.
The convergence of Pakistan and Jordan’s positions—firmly opposing the displacement of Palestinians and advocating for post-conflict reconstruction—showcases their collective influence as steadfast advocates for Muslim world issues.
Their commitment to coordinating within the Arab-Islamic coalition striving for a Gaza ceasefire further amplifies their collective voice in global diplomatic forums, he said.
Prof Cheng said that deliberations on Afghanistan and India further highlighted their aligned stance on regional stability.
His Majesty King Abdullah II’s acknowledgment of Pakistan’s indispensable role in upholding regional peace underscores Islamabad’s strategic significance in South Asia, while Pakistan, in turn, gains a valuable ally in the Middle East—one that serves as a vital bridge between the Arab world and South Asia.
