Jordan Times
Wednesday, October 3, 2001
'Christian-Muslim ties have always been marked by affection, respect'
AMMAN (Petra) — His Majesty King Abdullah said on Tuesday that Christian-Muslim relations in Jordan have always been marked by brotherly affection, close cooperation and mutual respect.Welcoming the Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem Irenios I at Beit Al Baraka, King Abdullah said the Christian Arabs have offered numerous contributions to the Arab civilisation, and history bears witness to the fact that the followers of Christianity and Islam in this region have always had a common destiny.
Christian Arabs in this region have lived with their Muslim brothers and sisters in an atmosphere marked by tolerance, understanding, friendship and common heritage.
Congratulating the patriarch on his election to the esteemed post, King Abdullah voiced Jordan's full support for the Orthodox patriarchal efforts to safeguard the identity of the Arab Christian sites in Jerusalem.
He underlined the need for closer cooperation towards the establishment of a just and comprehensive peace which, he said, can ensure security and stability for all people in the region.
The patriarch paid tribute to the Hashemite family for its role in protecting the identity of the holy places in Jerusalem.
“The Orient Church expresses its affection for and pride in the Royal family for their role in safeguarding the holy sites and their constant efforts to establish a durable and just peace in the Middle East.”
Later the King accompanied by several Royal family members, the prime minister and other high ranking officials attended a lunch hosted by the patriarch.