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Ammon News - AMMONNEWS - His Majesty King Abdullah II, Monday, delivered the Speech from the Throne at the opening of the 18th Parliament's First Ordinary Session.

Following is the full text of His Majesty's speech: In the Name of God, the Most Merciful, the Compassionate, Prayers and peace be upon our Prophet Mohammad, Honourable Senators, Honourable Representatives, Peace, God’s mercy and blessings be upon you.

In the name of God, and with His blessings, we inaugurate the first ordinary session of the Eighteenth Parliament.

On this day, I am delighted to congratulate all members of the House of Representatives who have earned the trust of citizens in their constituencies to represent them in parliament. You assume this responsibility following elections that embody our commitment to strengthen public participation in political life and decision-making as well as enrooting our democratic path – a path we cherish and pledge to protect and enhance.

Honourable Senators, Honourable Representatives, Throughout recent years, we have succeeded in protecting our society and national unity against the threats of evil forces, the khawarej (outlaws of Islam) and terrorism. This was achieved with God’s blessings, Jordanians’ sense of responsibility, and the courage of the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army and security agencies, which we remain committed to support and enhance their capabilities.

Jordan continues to face challenges and regional repercussions; we are all called upon to face them with determination, unity, and solidarity as one united family. And we will guard the rights and welfare of all Jordanians in our beloved country.

Despite various challenges, Jordan will remain at the forefront of defending Arab and Muslim causes and we will continue to uphold our historical duty in safeguarding Muslim and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.

We are determined to move forward in advancing our economy through policies and programmes that aim to realise sustainable growth, serve our national interests first and foremost, increase participation through the Decentralisation Law, and formulate the necessary plans to develop the judiciary and strengthen rule of law. We are equally determined to develop our human resources to meet today’s challenges and empower our youth to realise their aspirations.

I have directed the government to adopt a realistic and objective approach in its policy statement when it seeks a vote of confidence from the House of Representatives. The government’s top priority will be to cooperate with your esteemed assembly in a spirit of joint responsibility and partnership based on the principles of separation of powers and serving public good. I hope that this government will continue to serve throughout the full term of this Eighteenth Parliament and as long as it maintains the confidence of the House of Representatives.

Honourable Senators, Honourable Representatives, We will proceed with comprehensive reforms that respond to ongoing developments and the urgent need for progress and modernisation, in order to realise a prosperous future for our citizens.

I am confident that parliament and government will work in full cooperation to achieve essential legislation and amend existing legislation to meet the goals we aspire to without delays.

Honourable Senators, Honourable Representatives, I ask God Almighty to help us all fulfil our responsibilities and continue serving our dear citizens and beloved country with confidence and determination.

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

Upon arrival at the Parliament, the King reviewed the guard of honor as a military band played the national anthem and an artillery unit fired a 21-gun salute welcoming the monarch.

The opening ceremony was attended by Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah, a number of royal family members, the prime minister, the Senate president, the president of the Judicial Council, the chief of the Royal court, the president of the Constitutional Court, the army chief, the King's advisors, the director of the King's Office, the ministers, senior civil and military officials and members of the Arab and foreign diplomatic corps.