Amman: Chief of the Royal Hashemite Court Yousef Issawi on Sunday patronized a national celebration organized by the Ma'an Cultural Forum to mark the kingdom's national occasions under the theme "A History We Tell... A Homeland We Defend." The event was attended by Ma'an Governor Khaled Al Hajjaj, and governorate senior officials, as well as government officials, youth representatives and delegates from cultural and social organizations.
According to Jordan News Agency, the ceremony opened with the royal anthem, followed by a recitation from the Holy Quran. Speakers at the event emphasized the significance of national occasions in Jordan's national consciousness, highlighting the kingdom's long-standing path of achievement and development while expressing support for the Hashemite leadership.
They underscored the importance of drawing inspiration from the values of the Great Arab Revolt and its message of renaissance, advocating for continued efforts to safeguard the country's achievements and advance development and modernization efforts.
Speakers noted that under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II and HRH Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, Jordan is moving confidently toward the future, supported by its national unity and the Hashemite legacy.
Former Minister of Culture Barakat Awajan remarked that the national occasions represent milestones in Jordan's state development and reflect the achievements realized under King Abdullah II's leadership. The celebrations, he said, reinforce values of loyalty and belonging while encouraging dedication to serving the country and its leadership.
Awajan highlighted that the event's theme embodies pride in Jordan's history and the sacrifices of its people. He emphasized that Jordan would continue to stand as a model of security, stability, progress, and achievement under the Hashemite leadership.
He further stated that the kingdom is pursuing comprehensive development, modernization, and reform under King Abdullah II, drawing on the Hashemite legacy and a vision that places Jordanians at the center of national development. He also mentioned Jordan's active role in defending Arab causes, particularly the Palestinian issue.
Awajan asserted that achievements under the Hashemite monarchs have strengthened political and economic stability, bolstering Jordan's standing regionally and internationally. He noted that the Hashemite vision had launched initiatives focused on empowering youth, expanding productive opportunities, and enhancing the national economy's competitiveness.
Earlier, Ma'an Cultural Forum President Sharhabil Abkal Al Khattab noted that the national occasions offer a chance to reflect on the country's journey, shaped by its leadership and people's determination. He stated that Jordan continues to move confidently toward the future, backed by national unity and the steadfast support of its citizens.
Al Khattab expressed that the celebration's theme reflects Jordanians' pride in their history and commitment to values of sacrifice, hard work, and service, urging for ongoing efforts to build on national achievements and preserve the kingdom's development gains.
The event also featured a documentary on Ma'an Governorate's history and its national role since the Great Arab Revolt's launch, highlighting contributions from prominent figures and the governorate's role in the kingdom's development over the years.
Cultural and patriotic performances, including a poem by local poet Ziad Al Saudi and folklore performances by the Ma'an Folklore Troupe and the Al Qantara Center troupe, showcased Jordan's rich cultural heritage and were warmly received by attendees.
The Ma'an Cultural Forum concluded the ceremony by honoring Issawi.