King calls for solid House-gov’t partnership

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah has urged the government and the new Parliament to work hand-in-hand and with a spirit of joint responsibility to steer the legislative process towards national goals.

In the Speech from the Throne at the opening of the first ordinary session of the 18th Parliament on Monday, His Majesty said that he has directed the government to "adopt a realistic and objective approach in its policy statement when it seeks a vote of confidence from the House of Representatives".

He highlighted Jordan's ability to maintain national unity in the face of terrorist threats, stressing that the country is still struggling with challenges, particularly of economic and developmental nature.

King Abdullah stressed Jordan's commitment to strengthening public participation in political life and decision making as well as enrooting the democratic path — "a path we cherish and pledge to protect and enhance".

Despite that, "Jordan will remain at the forefront of defending Arab and Muslim causes and we will continue to uphold our historical duty in safeguarding Muslim and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem", he said.

Following is the official translation of the speech: 

In the Name of God, the Most Merciful, the Compassionate,

Prayers and peace be upon our Prophet Mohammad,

Honourable Senators, Honourable Representatives,

Peace, God’s mercy and blessings be upon you.

In the name of God, and with His blessings, we inaugurate the first ordinary session of the 18th Parliament.

On this day, I am delighted to congratulate all members of the House of Representatives who have earned the trust of citizens in their constituencies to represent them in Parliament. You assume this responsibility following elections that embody our commitment to strengthening public participation in political life and decision making as well as enrooting our democratic path — a path we cherish and pledge to protect and enhance.

Honourable Senators,Honourable Representatives,

Throughout recent years, we have succeeded in protecting our society and national unity against the threats of evil forces, the khawarij (outlaws of Islam) and terrorism. This was achieved with God’s blessings, Jordanians’ sense of responsibility, and the courage of the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army and security agencies, which we remain committed to supporting and enhanceing their capabilities.

Jordan continues to face challenges and regional repercussions; we are all called upon to face them with determination, unity and solidarity as one united family. And we will guard the rights and welfare of all Jordanians in our beloved country.

Despite various challenges, Jordan will remain at the forefront of defending Arab and Muslim causes and we will continue to uphold our historical duty in safeguarding Muslim and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.

We are determined to move forward in advancing our economy through policies and programmes that aim to realise sustainable growth, serve our national interests first and foremost, increase participation through the Decentralisation Law, and formulate the necessary plans to develop the judiciary and strengthen the rule of law. We are equally determined to develop our human resources to meet today’s challenges and empower our youth to realise their aspirations.

I have directed the government to adopt a realistic and objective approach in its policy statement when it seeks a vote of confidence from the House of Representatives. The government’s top priority will be to cooperate with your esteemed assembly in a spirit of joint responsibility and partnership based on the principles of separation of powers and serving public good. I hope that this government will continue to serve throughout the full term of this 18th Parliament and as long as it maintains the confidence of the House of Representatives.

Honourable Senators,Honourable Representatives,

We will proceed with comprehensive reforms that respond to ongoing developments and the urgent need for progress and modernisation, in order to realise a prosperous future for our citizens.

I am confident that Parliament and government will work in full cooperation to achieve essential legislation and amend existing legislation to meet the goals we aspire to without delays.

Honourable Senators,Honourable Representatives,

I ask God Almighty to help us all fulfil our responsibilities and continue serving our dear citizens and beloved country with confidence and determination.

Peace, God’s mercy and blessings be upon you.