Jordan’s coexistence model unique in region, world — King

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Sunday said that Jordan has always been and still is a model of harmonious Muslim-Christian coexistence in the region and the world, according to a Royal Court statement.

The King made his remarks during a meeting with Pope Tawadros II of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St Mark, attended by HRH Prince Ghazi, the King’s personal envoy and religious and cultural affairs adviser. 

His Majesty highlighted the Kingdom's efforts to enroot the concept of dialogue and understanding among followers of different religions, highlighting the need to stimulate all concerned parties to work for promoting the values of harmony in the community.  

Talks also covered means to boost Copts' visits to the Kingdom and the Christian pilgrimage sites, especially the Baptism Site, which has "high religious status among Christians". 

The King and the Coptic Pope also discussed the Jordan-hosted 11th session of the Middle East Council of Churches general assembly meetings, which focuses this year on the role the region’s Christian component.

For his part, Pope Tawadros II commended Jordan’s pursuit of understanding and harmony among followers of religions and the role of the Hashemites in preserving Islamic and Christian sanctuaries in Jerusalem, according to the statement. 

Also on Sunday, the Pope opened the Coptic Monastery of Saint Anthony in Madaba, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported, adding that he performed prayers there with Coptic bishops, Christian clergymen and Copts in the governorate.

The corner stone of the monastery was put by Pope Shenouda III of Alexandria in 2005. 

Pope Tawadros II and an accompanying delegation also visited Mount Nebo, a significant biblical site in Madaba.