During the State Dinner at Castle of Laeken

 

 

Your Majesties,

Excellencies,

Distinguished guests,

 

Rania and I as well as our entire delegation have received a wonderful welcome this week. Allow me to express our warmest thanks to the Royal Family, to the Government and to the people of Belgium.

 

Your Majesty, a very meaningful part of this visit was your invitation to see the magnificent Congress Column and pay our respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. I am deeply aware that this memorial recognises, not only the brave soldiers of the past, but also the Belgians who, since 1945 until today, have given their lives in the service of peace.

 

This memorial is a powerful reminder of the critical role Belgium has had, and continues to have, in building a future of global security and peace.

 

We come together tonight, not simply as long-time friends, but as strong allies, who for nearly six decades, have stood shoulder-to-shoulder on behalf of the values our world urgently needs: acceptance of each other, peace and justice.

 

And as we celebrate our partnership, so must we set the tone for our future, by sending a message to those who seek to divide our world.

 

 

My friends,

The unspeakable atrocities committed in this city by the khawarej, the outlaws of Islam, attack the very essence of peaceful society. Jordanians stand with your courageous people in your fight against this threat.

 

And, together, we are also part of a larger response. The threat we face is shared. It is global. For peace, for security, for prosperity, we have to address these challenges with a holistic strategy that engages our multiple strengths.

 

Let’s remember that the fight we share is not only on geographic battlefields. It is also on the global battleground of human values, human well-being, human solidarity.

 

In this regard, let me say: Know that the atrocities perpetrated by the khawarej are atrocities against Islam. Thousands of Muslims have been victims, in fact the main targets of the khawarej. And Muslims across the world are not only fighting back, but leading the fight.

 

Your Majesty, my friends,

In these challenging days, Belgium’s importance cannot be overstated. Your country has had a vital role in bringing peoples and nations together. You have been champions of human rights, inclusion and mutual respect. Again and again, in the face of adversity, your people have shown the victory of human dignity, courage and resolve.

 

These are the pillars on which a peaceful and prosperous world will be built. Count on Jordan as your committed partner and enduring friend.

 

Thank you.