Partnerships that build a better world

The just concluded state visit of Their Majesties King Abdullah and Queen Rania to Brussels, for talks with King Philippe and Queen Mathilde meant to boost the two countries’ ties and expand their strategic partnership, was important and successful.

Jordan and Belgium may be two small countries, but they act big when it comes to defending common values and the well-being of their peoples, or when acting in solidarity with like-minded nations.

“We come together… not simply as long-time friends, but as strong allies who for nearly six decades, have stood shoulder-to-shoulder on behalf of the values our world urgently needs: acceptance of each other, peace and justice,” said the King. 

“Together we are part of a larger response to regional and global threats and challenges,” said the King.

Jordan, King Abdullah emphasised, can be counted on as a committed and enduring friend. One that understands the threat of terrorism and that has been fighting it to ensure that the lives of its people can continue normally despite the turmoil and bloodshed surrounding it in our troubled region.

As the King said, “the fight we share is not only on geographic battlefields. It is also on the global battlefield of human values, human well-being, human solidarity”.

Jordan was among the first countries to condemn the senseless killings in the Belgium capital, and remains among the leading countries fighting all acts of terrorism.

The atrocities committed in Brussels a few months ago are also atrocities against Islam, a religion that preaches compassion, love and forgiveness, said the King. 

“The atrocities perpetrated by the khawarej are atrocities against Islam, thousands of Muslims have been victims — in fact the main targets of the khawarej. And Muslims across the world are not only fighting back, but leading the fight,” His Majesty added.

The friendship and solidarity forged between Jordan and Belgium shows how even small states can together make a big difference in international affairs when they join forces against terrorism and extremism.

It also shows that through their shared values, they can together forge a common destiny, work to build a peaceful and prosperous world.