The 26th Royal Accession Anniversary: A Continued Journey of Nation-Building and Modernization in Jordan - Jordan News

Jordan News

08-06-2025

Tomorrow, June 9, Jordanians will mark the 26th anniversary of His Majesty King Abdullah II's accession to the throne.
Led by His Majesty, Jordanians continue their steadfast journey of development, modernization, reform, and support for fellow Arabs, in service of the nation and the pursuit of stability and peace. اضافة اعلان Since ascending the throne in 1999, King Abdullah II has led Jordan through significant milestones in building and solidifying the modern state, strengthening the rule of law, and achieving progress across the economic, social, and political spheres. In his Throne Speech opening the first ordinary session of the 20th Parliament on November 18, 2024, His Majesty reaffirmed that the goal is to ensure a dignified life for all citizens, empower youth, and prepare them for future job markets. Jordanian sports have also seen remarkable growth and achievements at both regional and global levels, most notably the national football team's historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The King's visits to cities, towns, and rural areas reflect his close connection to the people—a hallmark of the Hashemite approach that reinforces national unity and social cohesion under the concept of one Jordanian family. Advancing Jordan's development, building on achievements, and serving loyal citizens remain top priorities for His Majesty. He consistently expresses pride in what Jordanians have achieved and his firm belief in their united commitment to develop and protect Jordan, while standing by the causes of the Arab nation. In celebration of the Silver Jubilee of His Majesty's constitutional accession to power, royal visits to all governorates in the past year were accompanied by the launch of initiatives that spurred development across education, healthcare, industry, and productivity sectors, aiming to engage the public in sustainable growth. In Balqa Governorate on December 10, 2024, His Majesty inaugurated a Military Retirees Club to provide social, cultural, and sports services to veterans and their families. On November 28, 2024, in Karak, His Majesty praised the region's wealth in resources such as potash and its key projects in industry, agriculture, and water, reaffirming commitment to improving services across all governorates. He inaugurated the Research, Development, and Innovation Center of the Arab Potash Company, which aims to develop new products and investment opportunities tied to Dead Sea minerals. His Majesty also launched the company's 10-year growth strategy (2024–2034) for the fertilizer and derivative chemical industries, part of Jordan's Economic Modernization Vision. In Tafileh on October 16, 2024, the King stressed the importance of leveraging the region's tourism sites and agricultural lands, improving facilities at places like Dana Reserve and Sela Castle, and expanding successful investment models like the wind energy project. He highlighted the significance of local museums and new service centers in promoting tourism and enhancing services. On October 1, 2024, in Ajloun, His Majesty emphasized the impact of the cable car project in boosting tourism and reiterated the need to implement the region's master plan and develop infrastructure to attract investment and create job opportunities. While visiting Jerash on September 17, 2024, following the completion of the first phase of political modernization, His Majesty voiced hope that the recent parliamentary elections would mark a turning point toward program-based political parties that meet citizens' aspirations. He described Jerash as 'a city of history and authenticity that showcases Jordan to the world.' The King sees no separation between political and economic modernization, as reiterated during his visit to Zarqa on May 14, 2024. In Madaba in April 2024, the King highlighted the city's historical and religious significance and its potential for further tourism growth, especially at Mount Nebo. Also in April, during his visit to Mafraq, His Majesty praised the region's continuous development, especially in agriculture, and acknowledged its strategic location on key international trade routes. Addressing the northern and eastern border communities, the King said: 'You are closest to the frontlines and know the efforts of our armed forces and security services in protecting the country and combatting smuggling. Your sons are among those heroes whom we honor and respect.' During a meeting on April 8, 2024, with representatives from Jordan's refugee camps, His Majesty affirmed that a strong and stable Jordan is best positioned to support Arab brothers, especially Palestinians. While visiting the southern desert in Wadi Rum, the King fondly recalled his service in the 40th Armored Brigade and expressed appreciation for the region's natural beauty and tourism potential. On March 27, 2024, during a gathering in Qasr Al-Mshatta with representatives of the central desert, His Majesty said Jordan has overcome many hardships thanks to the resolve of its people, and the world respects the Kingdom's principled positions and regional role. In Ma'an, on February 29, 2024, the King described the city as the gateway of goodness and the first station in the Kingdom's founding. He noted the many royal initiatives that have brought progress across various sectors. In Aqaba, on February 28, 2024, His Majesty reflected on how dreams of developing the port city had become reality thanks to the efforts of dedicated Jordanians. On the international front, the King has consistently worked to enhance Jordan's global standing, build cooperative relationships, and promote regional peace, tolerance, and humanitarian values. His international tours, especially to the United States and Europe, focus on securing support to stop the war in Gaza, protect civilians, ensure sustained humanitarian aid, and create political pathways for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Education in Jordan has significantly improved under His Majesty's reign, evolving to meet global standards and labor market demands. In his message to the nation on the 25th anniversary of assuming constitutional powers on February 7, 2024, the King said: 'Together, we have carried forward the mission of building modern Jordan at the dawn of the 21st century, staying true to the legacy of King Hussein and our founding generations. With God's help, we continue with confidence and determination, committed to political, economic, and administrative modernization.' Healthcare has also advanced with the construction of new hospitals, improved medical services, and initiatives targeting social protection and support for low-income families. His Majesty remains committed to enriching Jordan's democratic process and reinforcing the role of Parliament in the country's democratic development. The King's vision sees modernization as a three-pronged, interlinked path—political, economic, and administrative—which has expanded democratic progress and promoted youth and women's participation. In 2001, His Majesty approved the establishment of the King Abdullah II Fund for Development, a non-profit organization focused on fostering development throughout Jordan. In 2006, royal initiatives were institutionalized for improved integration with governmental development plans. That same year, the King Abdullah II Center for Excellence was founded to promote a culture of excellence. During a visit to Amman on December 18, 2024, His Majesty expressed his pride in the capital as the 'beating heart of Jordan,' a city rich in history, heritage, and modernity—an enduring symbol of peace and unity. The King emphasizes good governance, economic freedom, sustainable growth, poverty reduction, and an investor-friendly climate, while also championing technology and digital transformation. This was echoed in his remarks at the G7 Outreach Session on June 14, 2024, where he spoke of the enormous opportunities in energy, innovation, and education for the Mediterranean region. As the Supreme Commander of the Jordan Armed Forces, the King prioritizes the preparedness and advancement of the military and security agencies. Chairing a National Security Council meeting on December 7, 2024, His Majesty praised the Armed Forces for securing the northern borders and recognized their vital role in safeguarding national security. In February 2024, the King honored a group of veterans and martyrs with the Silver Jubilee Medal during a military ceremony, emphasizing their exemplary role in national service. His Majesty has also made media and culture pillars of societal development, alongside environmental and agricultural initiatives that align with sustainable development goals. In 2024, Jordan launched a national strategy to promote itself as a regional hub for green hydrogen and inaugurated the first national food security information system. Recognizing his contributions to food security, sustainable agriculture, and humanitarian support—particularly in Gaza—the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) awarded King Abdullah II the Agricola Medal on June 4, 2025. Jordan continues to play a key role in unifying the Arab world and defending the Palestinian cause. The King remains a staunch advocate for a two-state solution with East Jerusalem as the Palestinian capital. Amid the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the West Bank, His Majesty persistently calls for an end to the violence and the protection of civilians. At the Arab Summit in Bahrain on May 16, 2024, the King said: 'The war must end, and the world must assume its moral and humanitarian responsibility to resolve a conflict that has lasted over seven decades, and pave the way for a future of peace and dignity for our Arab sons and daughters.' He reaffirmed Jordan's commitment to safeguarding Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem under the Hashemite custodianship. On January 10, 2024, King Abdullah II hosted a summit in Aqaba with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to address developments in Gaza and the West Bank. At the UN General Assembly on September 24, 2024, His Majesty emphasized the urgent need to protect Palestinians and called on the international community to adopt a protection mechanism for them. Jordan continues its solidarity efforts by delivering humanitarian, medical, and relief aid to Gaza via land and air. The King called for lifting the blockade and ending the humanitarian crisis at the Arab-Islamic Summit on November 11, 2024. His Majesty has also worked tirelessly to ensure the sustainability of UNRWA, underscoring its essential role until a just solution for Palestinians is achieved. Granting UNRWA the Order of Independence (First Class) in 2024 was a clear message of Jordan's unwavering support. In February 2024, King Abdullah II met U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House, reaffirming his firm stance against the forced displacement of Palestinians. On April 26, 2024, King Abdullah II and Queen Rania participated in the funeral of Pope Francis, symbolizing their commitment to global peace and interfaith dialogue. Her Majesty Queen Rania has consistently supported His Majesty's vision through initiatives in education and development, empowering women and youth through institutions such as the Queen Rania Foundation, Jordan River Foundation, and the Queen Rania Teacher Academy.
Through her outreach across Jordan and on the international stage, Queen Rania continues to advocate for the needs and aspirations of local communities and highlight Jordan's humanitarian voice to the world.