DUBAI, 12 November 2021 – The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan today marked its National Day celebration at Expo 2020 Dubai with a flag-raising ceremony at the Nations Platform in Al Wasl Plaza, followed by cultural performances including a show from renowned Jordanian singer-songwriter Omar Al-Abdallat.
Attendees at the ceremony included His Excellency Dr Bisher Al Khasawneh, Prime Minister of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan; Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation & Director General of Expo 2020 Dubai; and Najeeb Al Ali, Executive Director, Commissioner General Office, Expo 2020 Dubai.
His Excellency Dr Bisher Al Khasawneh, Prime Minister of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, said: “Please allow me to express my gratitude and appreciation to the UAE for offering the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan the opportunity to participate in a global event of this size and scale, at a time when relations between our two nations have become distinguished and represents a source of pride and glory in all sectors of joint bilateral collaboration.”
“The UAE has become one of Jordan’s key investment partners. The value of UAE investments in Jordan nears USD 17 billion in vital economic sectors with high-added value. In 2020, trade between the two countries stood at nearly USD 891 million. It is hoped that new prospects for further cooperation between our two brotherly nations will open up, mutually benefitting both.”
Najeeb Al Ali said: “The ties between the UAE and Jordan are based on deep-rooted brotherhood, solidarity and mutual respect, together with joint action in several areas at the regional and international levels. They bolster the relations built by our late leaders, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and His Majesty King Hussein bin Talal.”
“We must never forget that Jordan was one of the first countries to celebrate the union of the UAE and establish diplomatic relations with the newly formed country. Since then, the advancement, stability and prosperity of both our countries have been the top priority of our bilateral relationship.”
Festivities held throughout the day included performances by the Jordanian Armed Forces Band, the Ma’an Folklore Band and the headline concert at the Jubilee Stage by Omar Al-Abdallat, who popularised Bedouin music.
The Jordan Pavilion at Expo 2020 is designed as a journey to explore the country’s contrasts, between the grand history and tradition, and a modern, innovative nation with aspects of the pavilion structured around the theme: ‘The ability to invent and innovate against all odds’.
Located in the Mobility District, it has a Petra-inspired gorge and a sensory experience that allows guests to sample the best of the country’s culture and achievements. Visitors are also taken on a journey where they can explore, view and purchase some of the products created by Jordanian artisans.
Honour and National Days at Expo 2020 Dubai are moments to celebrate all the 200 international participants, highlight their culture and achievements, and showcase their pavilions and programming. Each includes a flag-raising ceremony in Al Wasl Plaza followed by speeches and cultural performances.
Running until 31st March 2022, Expo 2020 invites visitors from across the planet to join the making of a new world in a six-month celebration of human creativity, innovation, progress and culture.