By : Nedal Zubeidi
Jordan Daily – Pakistan’s Ambassador to Jordan and Palestine, Muhammad Ajmal Iqbal, hosted a reception in Amman marking Pakistan’s National Day, highlighting the nation’s historical struggle for independence, economic progress, and strong bilateral ties with Jordan.
“This day has a deep rooted historical and emotional relevance for people of my country,” Ambassador Iqbal said in his speech, noting it commemorates the 1940 Lahore Resolution, which laid the ideological foundation for Pakistan.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s journey since independence, Iqbal acknowledged the geopolitical challenges faced by the nation. “Our strategic location…posed us colossal security challenges,” he said, adding that Pakistan’s resilience had helped defeat terrorism and external threats.
Iqbal also showcased Pakistan’s economic achievements. “Pakistan today stands as the fourth-largest exporter of rice… the 6th largest for producing fruits… and produces 25 million smartphones every year locally,” he noted. He pointed to significant advances in infrastructure, with road networks expanding from 26,300 kilometers in 1947 to over 500,000 kilometers today, and over 194 million users connected through an expanding telecom sector.
He emphasized the country’s investment potential, citing $6 trillion in untapped mineral resources and a 2024 “solar revolution” in which Pakistan imported 17 gigawatts of solar panels.
Highlighting Pakistan’s tourism potential, Iqbal called the country “a land of breathtaking landscapes” and “a treasure-trove of history,” mentioning destinations such as K2, Hunza Valley, Mohenjo-Daro, and Taxila.
On bilateral relations, the ambassador underscored the long-standing friendship between Jordan and Pakistan. “Jordan was the 5th nation to accept Pakistan as a sovereign country in 1947,” he stated, adding that both countries have defended each other’s sovereignty and enjoy robust cooperation in defense, education, and agriculture.
“Around 15,000 Pakistani agriculturists have been working in Jordan for nearly 50 years,” Iqbal said, highlighting the diaspora’s role in Jordan’s economy. He also noted that over 7,000 Jordanian students have graduated from Pakistani universities, especially in medicine and engineering.
Speaking in his capacity as Ambassador to Palestine, Iqbal reiterated Pakistan’s support for Palestinian statehood amid ongoing conflict. “Our heart goes with the people of Gaza,” he said, affirming continued humanitarian assistance and moral support from Pakistan.
The ambassador concluded by thanking Dr Nancy Namrouqa, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Jordanian officials, the diplomatic corps, and members of the armed forces for attending the ceremony.
