His Majesty King Abdullah delivers the Speech from the Throne at the inauguration of the fourth ordinary session of the 18th Parliament (Photo courtesy of Royal Court)

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Sunday inaugurated the fourth ordinary session of the 18th Parliament and delivered the Speech from the Throne.

In the speech, King Abdullah said the fourth ordinary session is “an ordinary session taking place in extraordinary times, which require transparency and courage, and hard work and achievement in equal measure”, according to a Royal Court statement.

“I speak to you today from the very podium where I vowed, 20 years ago, to preserve the Constitution and to remain loyal to the nation,” His Majesty told lawmakers.

“Al Hussein, may his soul rest in peace, pledged me for this nation, and I have only ever been its loyal servant,” the King added.

Saluting every Jordanian man and woman who have contributed to the nation’s progress and development, His Majesty made special mention of his brothers and sisters in arms at the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army and security agencies, active and retired.

Reaffirming Jordan’s unwavering positions on key causes, His Majesty said: “Our national positions on the Palestinian cause are steadfast, supporting our Palestinian brethren to establish their independent state on the June 4, 1967 lines, with East Jerusalem as its capital. There will be no compromise on safeguarding Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, despite increasing dangers and threats.”

“Today, I also announce the expiration of the Peace Treaty annexes on Al Ghamr and Baqura and the imposition of our full sovereignty over every inch of those lands,” the King underscored.

His Majesty acknowledged the concern felt by Jordanians, noting: “I know and feel with every one of my dear, fellow Jordanians. Every one of you has a family to provide for, and I am responsible for an entire nation.”

The King said Jordan has paid a heavy price because of its historical positions, stressing that the Kingdom has undertaken bold reforms, even in the most difficult of circumstances, demonstrating to the world “that Jordan, whatever the challenges, does not know the impossible”.

“Jordanians, as always, have stood firm safeguarding their homeland and its achievements, for Jordanians do not back down in the face of adversity; they endure and persevere, having inherited the spirit of resolve and dedication, generation after generation,” His Majesty added.

Noting that Jordan is moving steadily forward, the King said “the most difficult reforms are behind us, and the promising future lies ahead. We are marching confidently towards that future to realise the aspirations of the people of this nation.”

His Majesty said the government has launched the economic programme’s first package and will announce other detailed packages, including a review of regulations and legislation related to taxes and customs, in order to facilitate business and reduce the burden on citizens.

The King directed the government to “work vigorously and efficiently to take further bold measures to advance the national economy”.

But His Majesty stressed that “no government can proceed on the path of reform and achievement without a supportive legislative power, an impartial judiciary, an active private sector, and citizens confident in themselves and in the future of their country”.

“No venue is more appropriate than this one here to urge the three branches of government to carry out their duties. Today, you are all responsible, and tomorrow, you are all accountable,” the King said.

“I do not address you today fearing for our nation. I speak to you out of my faith in our country and in you, and with a clear vision of the opportunities before us,” His Majesty told lawmakers.

The King noted Jordan’s qualified youth and promising sectors, stressing that “investors are keen and the world believes in Jordan and its potential”.

“Let us arise to build a new reality in which growth can be doubled, creating thousands of opportunities for every aspiring Jordanian... Our awakening has no place for those who surrender to pessimism and gloom,” His Majesty said, adding that “we derive our optimism and determination from our people”.

Earlier, an official ceremony was held on the King’s arrival at Parliament, accompanied by Their Royal Highnesses Crown Prince Hussein and Prince Hashem.

The opening of Parliament’s third ordinary session was attended by Her Majesty Queen Rania and Crown Prince Hussein, as well as a number of Royal family members, senior officials and officers, and Arab and foreign diplomats.

After delivering the Speech from the Throne, the King greeted members of the Senate and the House of Representatives, in addition to senior officials and officers.