By The South Asia Times

ISLAMABAD - Jordan’s King Abdullah II began his two-day official visit to Pakistan on Saturday, marking the first visit by a Jordanian monarch to Islamabad in 21 years and signaling a renewed momentum in bilateral relations.

King Abdullah II was accorded a ceremonial welcome at Nur Khan Airbase, where President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif received him. A formation of Pakistan Air Force JF-17 aircraft escorted the royal flight upon its entry into Pakistani airspace in a show of honor. First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, federal ministers, and Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari were also present.

President Zardari said the visit would give Pakistan–Jordan relations “a new strategic dimension,” noting that ties between the two nations are rooted in “historical brotherhood, mutual trust and shared values.”

Later in the day, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hosted the Jordanian King at the Prime Minister’s House, where the two leaders held wide-ranging talks focused on expanding cooperation across multiple sectors including trade, investment, health, science and technology, education, and defense.

Both sides reaffirmed their resolve to strengthen economic and strategic ties and enhance collaboration at regional and international forums. Sharif described the visit as “a testament to the enduring friendship between Pakistan and Jordan,” while King Abdullah II lauded Pakistan’s support for Jordan’s humanitarian efforts and role in regional stability, particularly during and after the Gaza conflict.

The leaders exchanged views on regional security dynamics, with Prime Minister Sharif briefing the King on developments in Afghanistan and India. King Abdullah II acknowledged Pakistan’s key contributions toward maintaining peace in the region.

On Palestine, the two leaders reiterated their principled stance of rejecting any displacement of Palestinians from Gaza. They agreed to intensify coordination among the eight Arab Islamic countries working with the United States on the Gaza ceasefire and peace framework reached in Sharm el-Sheikh.

A ceremony marking the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in media, culture, and education was also witnessed by both dignitaries.

Prime Minister Sharif later hosted a state banquet in honor of King Abdullah II and the accompanying delegation. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and senior government officials attended the engagements.

King Abdullah II is expected to hold further meetings on Sunday before concluding his visit.