Amman, Feb 4 (Petra) - Acting Lower House Speaker Khamis Atiyeh said Jordanians celebrate the birthday of His Majesty King Abdullah II as a cherished national occasion, describing him as the leader of the nation’s journey, the patron of development, and the bearer of the Hashemite trust in a time of major challenges and transformations, as well as the custodian of Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.

Speaking while sponsoring a ceremony marking the King’s birthday in Zarqa, attended by MPs Jamal Qamouh and Naseem Al-Abbadi, Atiyeh said the occasion reflects the people’s loyalty to a leader who chose to remain close to his citizens, engaged in their concerns, and firmly believes that Jordanians are the country’s true wealth and that building a modern state begins with strengthening the rule of law, reinforcing state institutions, and safeguarding citizens’ dignity.

He said that since assuming his constitutional powers, His Majesty King Abdullah has led a comprehensive reform process, placing Jordan on the path toward a strong state, firm in its principles and flexible in its tools, and consistently present in its Arab and international surroundings with a wise voice and a steady stance, especially in defending Arab causes, foremost the Palestinian cause, and in protecting the Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.

Atiyeh added that the House of Representatives draws inspiration from the King’s visions by fulfilling its constitutional role in legislation and oversight and through genuine partnership with the government to serve national and public interests and advance the modernization process envisioned by His Majesty as a lasting approach rather than a temporary slogan.

He affirmed continued loyalty to the flag and commitment to protecting the constitution, working sincerely for a strong and prosperous Jordan, and pledging to remain faithful to the King’s path in a manner worthy of Jordanians’ sacrifices and honorable history.

//Petra// AF