ISLAMABAD: King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein of Jordan arrived in Islamabad today for a two-day state visit, the first by a Jordanian monarch to Pakistan in over 21 years, state media reported.
The visit, at the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, is seen as a significant step in strengthening the bilateral relations between the two countries.
Upon his arrival at Nur Khan Airbase, King Abdullah II was welcomed by President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Senior political figures, including Federal Ministers Musaddiq Malik and Wajiha Qamar, First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, were also present to greet the visiting monarch.
Speaking at the welcome ceremony, President Zardari said King Abdullah II’s visit would usher in a new strategic dimension to the already strong ties between Pakistan and Jordan, built on mutual trust, historical brotherhood, and shared values. He expressed hope that the visit would deepen cooperation in key areas including trade, defense, and cultural exchange.
As the King’s aircraft entered Pakistani airspace, a formation of Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Thunder jets provided an escort to the royal flight, underscoring the significance of the visit.
During his time in Islamabad, King Abdullah II is scheduled to hold high-level discussions with both President Zardari and Prime Minister Sharif. The meetings are expected to cover a wide range of bilateral issues, with a focus on strengthening political, economic, and cultural ties between the two nations.
A special investiture ceremony will also take place at Aiwan-e-Sadr, where King Abdullah II will be conferred Pakistan’s highest civilian honor.
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