Jordanian King, Pakistani PM deepen strategic cooperation in Islamabad talks

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Jordan vowed to broaden strategic, economic and political cooperation as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hosted King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein at the Prime Minister’s House on Saturday, marking the start of the Jordanian monarch’s two-day official visit.

The meeting, held shortly after King Abdullah II received a ceremonial guard of honor, centered on expanding collaboration in trade, investment, health, education, science and technology, and defense. Both sides reaffirmed their intention to deepen long-term strategic ties.

“The visit of His Majesty is a testament to the enduring friendship between Pakistan and Jordan,” the prime minister said, welcoming the Jordanian leader and describing the engagement as “a vital opportunity to chart an ambitious path forward for our partnership.”

King Abdullah II praised Pakistan’s diplomacy and humanitarian advocacy during and after the Gaza conflict, noting, “Jordan deeply values Pakistan’s consistent support for our role in promoting regional stability and humanitarian relief.” He added that the two nations “stand united in their principled position on Gaza.”

Both leaders underscored a shared stance on the Palestine issue, reiterating their zero-tolerance for any displacement of Palestinians from Gaza and agreeing to enhance coordination among the eight Arab-Islamic states working with the United States on the Gaza ceasefire and the Sharm el Sheikh Gaza Peace Plan.

The discussions also covered broader regional security, including developments in Afghanistan and India. According to the Prime Minister’s Office, King Abdullah II acknowledged Pakistan’s “key role in promoting peace and stability in the region.”

An MoU in media, culture and education was exchanged in the presence of the two leaders, marking an expansion of institutional cooperation. Later, the prime minister hosted a banquet in honor of the visiting monarch and his delegation.

King Abdullah II arrived earlier in the day to a warm reception at Nur Khan Airbase, where President Asif Ali Zardari, PM Sharif, and senior cabinet members received him.

The high-level Pakistani delegation present during the talks included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Information Minister Ataullah Tarar, Climate Change Minister Dr. Musaddiq Malik, and senior government officials.