Letter to Zeid Rifai on his resignation as president and member of the Senate

In the name of God the Most Merciful, the Compassionate,

Your Excellency Zeid Rifai,

Peace, God's mercy and blessings be upon you,

It is with great appreciation that I received your letter expressing your noble feelings and your wish that we accept your resignation from the presidency and membership of the Senate and to retire from public and political service after more than 50 years of dedicated political and public service. These years are a reflection of your love for and loyalty to Jordan, for which you are well known, as well as a reflection of your determination to uphold your duties, ability to shoulder responsibility and realise achievements with wisdom, statesmanship, selflessness and high morals.

As I accept your resignation so that you could enjoy a well-deserved rest after long years of diligent and loyal service, whether by His Majesty the late King Hussein or by myself, I assure Your Excellency that your service to this country will forever remain recognised, appreciated and embedded in our hearts and you will always have our respect, confidence and appreciation.

I pray to God Almighty to protect you, bestow on you health and happiness and reward you for your service.

Peace, God's mercy and blessings be upon you,

Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein
Amman, 15 December 2009