Islamabad/Rawalpindi, November 16,2025: President Asif Ali Zardari on Sunday conferred Pakistan’s highest civilian award, the Nishan-e-Pakistan, on His Majesty King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein of Jordan in recognition of his contributions to regional and global peace and for strengthening bilateral ties between the two countries.
The honour was bestowed during a special investiture ceremony at Aiwan-e-Sadr, following a luncheon hosted by President Zardari. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir were among the attendees, according to state-run PTV.
In a reciprocal gesture, King Abdullah II awarded President Zardari the Wisam al-Nahdah al-Mursa (Bejewelled Grand Cordon of Al Nahdah) — one of Jordan’s most prestigious honours, traditionally conferred upon heads of state and distinguished dignitaries.
Before the ceremony, President Zardari and King Abdullah II held detailed talks on regional and international developments, especially peace and security in the Middle East.
Both leaders reaffirmed their strong support for a two-state solution to the Palestinian issue, rejecting any proposals involving forced displacement of Palestinians. They reiterated the call for an independent and sovereign Palestine on pre-1967 borders with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as the capital.
Their remarks came as senior Israeli ministers once again opposed the creation of a Palestinian state, with Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz declaring on X that “there will be no Palestinian state,” and Foreign Minister Gideon Saar asserting that Israel “would not agree” to such a plan.
President Zardari and King Abdullah II also agreed to maintain close coordination on bilateral, regional and global matters and to expand cooperation at multilateral forums, particularly on humanitarian causes. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Climate Minister Senator Musadik Malik, senior officials, and Jordanian and Pakistani ambassadors attended the meeting.
King Abdullah II visits GIDS, reviews Pakistan’s defence capabilities
During his visit, King Abdullah II — accompanied by Her Royal Highness Princess Salma bint Abdullah II and a high-level Jordanian civil and military delegation — visited Global Industrial & Defence Solutions (GIDS). Field Marshal Asim Munir and senior Pakistani officials received the royal delegation.
His Majesty was briefed on Pakistan’s indigenous defence production, technological innovations, and potential areas for enhancing defence cooperation between Pakistan and Jordan.
Later, King Abdullah II travelled to the Tilla Field Firing Ranges, where he witnessed a major joint fire and manoeuvre exercise. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Azerbaijan’s Minister of Defence Industry, Mr. Vugar Valeh oglu Mustafayev, were also present.
The exercise showcased multi-domain operations, including conventional and aerial firepower, coordinated ground manoeuvres, spectrum warfare capabilities, and the employment of multi-purpose drones in multiple roles. King Abdullah II praised the professionalism, preparedness and high standards of training exhibited by the participating troops and aircrews.
On the occasion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted Pakistan’s “deep respect and affection” for King Abdullah II and the Jordanian people, saying the visit underscored the “enduring friendship, mutual trust, and shared desire for peace and development” between the two nations.
Field Marshal Asim Munir reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening military-to-military ties with Jordan, stressing the importance of jointly advancing the shared vision of a stable and peaceful region.
Earlier, the Jordanian monarch conferred upon the COAS the Order of the Military Merit of First Degree, recognising his service and contributions to enhancing military cooperation between Jordan and Pakistan.
King Abdullah II’s two-day visit to Pakistan marks a significant milestone in reinforcing the historic bonds of fraternity, cooperation and strategic partnership between Pakistan and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
