Jordan envoy hosts reception to celebrate two occasions

Islamabad

Ambassador of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, Nawaf Khalifa Saraireh, hosted a reception to celebrate two occasions – the Seventieth Anniversary of the Independence of the Hashemite Kingdom and the Centennial of the Great Arab Revolt. The event was held at the Shishmahal Hall of Serena Hotel and was a ‘houseful’ affair because celebrations in the Arab countries involve the whole family.

The hall resounded with the laughter, cries, squeals of delight and animated conversation of men, women and children of all ages from Arab missions, the ladies and young girls dressed in their beautiful national costumes drawing compliments. The lively music playing with the video screening of the sights and sounds of Jordan added to the atmosphere of festivity.

Other guests included diplomats of different cadres and Pakistanis from different walks of life, while the guest of honour was Minister for Interprovincial Coordination Riaz Hussain Pirzada and the cake was cut by him and the other ambassadors on the stage after the national anthems of Jordan and Pakistan had been played.

Guests were given a red carpet welcome with the scent of roses and frankincense in the air. Drapes in the form of the Jordanian flag had been put up both sides of the hall, making a colourful backdrop. Posters with information about Jordan — which is defined by ancient monuments, nature reserves and seaside resorts — were placed along each side of the carpet to give out information since tourism is the cornerstone of Jordan’s economy and Jordanians take pride in the diversity which combines history; archaeology; religion and adventure.

Dinner with a variety of cuisine was served and after the guest of honour had left, the formal atmosphere turned to one of celebration, the music was upped and male Jordanians of all ages — including the host and a few other persons — danced the traditional dance of their country, which involves fancy foot work and yodeling sounds. They were accompanied by clapping from those gathered around and needless to say cameras and cell phones by the dozens recorded the moment.

There were no speeches but Ambassador Nawaf Khalifa Saraireh, speaking informally, said Jordan and Pakistan enjoy strong; deep and historic ties, a relationship based on common values and perceptions and Jordan always emphasises the need to strengthen these relations because of common interests. While existing bilateral commercial and economic relations have increased, the present volume of trade is far below its potential. “We need to take measures to enhance and diversify trade relations,” he said. “Jordan has succeeded in maintaining stability through decades of regional political turmoil and in recent years it has become a regional hub for investors and business owners who have shown their confidence by investing heavily in the country.”