Jordan marks silver jubilee of King’s assumption of powers Sunday

Amman: Jordanians Sunday celebrate the silver jubilee of His Majesty King Abdullah's accession to the throne with a resolve to proceed along a path of achievement, modernization and reform and enhance democracy and the legislative authority. Since the King assumed his constitutional powers on June 9, 1999, the country has made wide strides on the reform process, foremost of which were constitutional reforms and the passage of a package of legislation to modernize the political system, economy and the public administration. Senate President Faisal Fayez said in remarks to Petra that the Kingdom's reform and development process is ongoing despite the regional tensions and crises, which "should not dissuade us from the reform goals, and we need to turn challenges into real opportunities and pursue building the country." He said the reforms had helped to immunize the parliament and judiciary and enhanced the separation of powers and the system of checks and balances as legislation was passed to bolster the int egrity and transparency system, public freedoms and grassroots participation. Former prime minister Taher Masri said Jordan has conquered many challenges, noting the Kingdom's security and stability in a volatile region. Lower House Speaker Ahmad safadi said as Jordan entered its second centennial, His Majesty underscored the endeavor toward a big national enterprise, incorporating the political, economic and administrative tracks to achieve comprehensive development and expand popular participation in the decision-making process. He noted King Abdullah's stances in achieving regional security and stability and promoting dialogue to solve crises, adding that Jordan remained steadfast in defending the Palestinians' rights and advocating for a fair and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue. Source: Jordan News Agency