Pak, Jordon relations get new heights after King Abdullah II visit: Experts
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PESHAWAR:The relations between Pakistan and Jordon have touched new heights of friendship after the historic visit of King Abdullah II that will give further impetus to bilateral trade, commerce, economy and Investment among the two brotherly Islamic countries, experts say.
Professor Dr Zahid Anwar, Department of Political Science, University of Peshawar (UoP), told APP on Friday that King Abdullah II, who had visited Pakistan after 11 years, has been given historic welcome with red carpet and salute by PAF JF-17 Thunder jets upon arrival at Islambad, signifying the importance of Jordon for Pakistan.
The visit of King Abdullah was a strong reflection of the close brotherly relations existing between Pakistan and Jordan since long and this deep rooted bilateral relationship would further cemented in days to come, he maintained.
Dr Zahid said visit of King Abdullah carried immense significance keeping in view the overall security situation in the region especially in Middle East in the aftermath of US President’s decision to recognize the disputed territory of Jerusalem as the so called Capital of Israel.
Pakistan has taken a principle stand by supporting the just and legitimate cause of Palestine and rejected the US decision about Jerusalem, he said, adding US President this illogical decision has in fact hurt sentiments of billions of Muslims besides inviting widespread criticism from the whole world.
“Muslims across the world had special attachment with holy city of Al Quds Al Sharif and would never accept it as the capital of Israel. Jerusalem is an internationally accepted occupied territory and recognizing it the capital of Israel would not only practically bury the solution of two states in Middle East but would also detrimental to peace efforts in the region.”
Dr Anwar said situation in Middle East was very sensitive and US would be held responsible if law and order situation has been further worsened in the Middle East.
Senior economic expert, Professor Dr Muhammad Naeem told APP that huge potential existed between the two countries to increase its bilateral trade and take advantage of mutual investment opportunities.
The bilateral trade between both the countries was currently about USD 75million that could be jacked up to a significant proportion in future, he remarked.
Dr Naeem said CPEC has enhanced Pakistan geo-political importance and ideal opportunities were available for Jordanian investors to take full advantage of it.
He said CPEC, being a major component of OBOR (one belt one road) would immensely help establish global connectivity, promote trade in Middle East, Central Asia Republic besides bringing people more closer with full operational of Gawadar Port.
“Pakistan is among one of the 80 countries through which OBOR will pass or would have an impact upon and these countries with 60pc of global population will generate about 40pc of world GDP, resulting shared goals for economic prosperity and development for benefits of masses,” he maintained.
PMLN Government had done tremendous efforts for development of communication sector including up-gradation of railways system, construction of new motorways and highways, ports, infrastructure development, importance of Gwadar Port, addressed grave problem of energy shortfall, defeated terrorism and other socio-economic reforms and stage was now set for massive investment in our country.
The signing of MoU by the Ministries of Housing of Pakistan and Jordon was right decision that would help bolster housing sector for benefits of masses, he maintained.
Professor Dr Ejaz Khan of International Relations Department, University of Peshawar termed the visit of King Abdullah of prime significance in the wake of Washington decision to shift its embassy to the disputed territory of Jerusalem. He said like others, great concerns were also found in Jordon after this controversial decision of US President.
He said Pakistan was the most important country of the Muslim Ummah and its role for world peace has been globally recognized.
Dr Ejaz said signing of agreement in the field of Civil Protection and Civil Defence between Pakistan and Jordon carried significance importance and defence cooperation between the two countries was imperative for peace and stability in the region.
He said Jordon can make investment by purchasing state of the art JF-17 Thunders jets from Pakistan for further bolstering its air defence.APP
