jordan pulse -

By Dr Yaqub Nassereddin
Those who lived through long phases of state-building in Arab world understand true meaning of mutual affection between leader and people. It is affection grounded in values, principles and ideals on which state built, forming stable foundation for a country whose people hold fast to national unity, political system, and solidarity with armed forces and security agencies that come from society and belong to it.
Opposite image shows how imbalance in this equation leads to deeper disruptions affecting vital interests, regional balances and international relations, tying fate of states and peoples dear to us to flaws in governance and widening gap between people and their system.
Jordan, by God’s grace, built its own model under Hashemite banner raised from first day in sky of Arabism. Generation after generation remained loyal to what it represents of honour, nobility and distinction befitting bearers of message of their forefather, Arab Hashemite Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him—a message of mercy, care, devotion and sincerity that deepens bond to level of faith in word and deed.
Jordanians celebrate birthday of their leader, His Majesty King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein, certain he strives for their dignity, honour and future of their children, and works to keep Jordan a fortified stronghold against storms that have long battered security and stability of region. Calculations rest on two pillars: unity of Jordan and cohesion of its political structure based on reciprocal loyalty and belonging; and wisdom of a leader devoted to his people, drawing strength from their love, trust, courage and strategic capacity to face diverse challenges and risks.
Royal birthday offers Jordanians chance to express depth of this bond and high esteem for a king who returns love with love, to affirm support and stand behind him as he steers Jordan through dangers by confronting hardship, not fleeing it, advancing reform and modernisation to make country stronger and more resilient—so it remains key factor in regional and international balance equations.
Celebration of our leader stems from collective conscience and reason, rooted not in comparison but in unique relationship forged over a century—from Abdullah I to Abdullah II—born of Great Arab Revolt and its renaissance project, continuous in national endeavour, balancing national and pan-Arab identity, so Jordan remains supporter of its nation and defender of its dignity.
With pride we say to Abu Al Hussein and Crown Prince Hussein: you are in our hearts. We pray God protects you, Jordan and its people, and sons and daughters of Arab Army and all who guard its security, and grants lasting goodness, love and safety.