Jordanians mark Independence Day with festivities

AMMAN – His Majesty King Abdullah on Monday acted as patron at a ceremony to celebrate the 69th independence anniversary. 

Her Majesty Queen Rania and HRH Crown Prince Hussein attended the ceremony, along with senior officials, lawmakers and key figures.

During the ceremony, His Majesty decorated achieving individuals from all walks of life and best-performing institutions.

Meanwhile, thousands of citizens attended festivities around the Kingdom marking the national occasion. A major event took place at King Hussein Park, northwest of Amman, organised by the Greater Amman Municipality. 

Citizens spontaneously expressed joy, while others had prepared special gifts, including a huge national banner of a record size and another flag made of cupcakes prepared by students of a culinary art college.  

People taking part in the festivities said that this year’s celebrations come with a special flavour, highlighting Jordan’s resilience and ability to survive regional threats.

Fadi Abu Jassar said what makes this year’s occasion special is the peace and security Jordan has amidst the instability the region witnesses. 

“I came to congratulate Jordanians and our beloved leader on this occasion, and to share Jordanians’ joy towards this occasion,” he told The Jordan Times as he was walking towards King Hussein Park to join a jovial crowd.

A number of Jordanians walked and drove from the 8th Circle towards King Hussein Park holding Jordanian flags and playing national songs. 

Fatima Attari, who was joined by her family members, was one of those Jordanians who headed towards the park. 

“I came today because I wanted to send a message to God hoping to keep our country safe and protect our beloved leader,” she told The Jordan Times. 

She also expressed hope that peace and security will always prevail in the Kingdom.

Public and private sectors joined ranks to mark the occasion and contribute to the national festivities. 

Manaseer Group, for example, organised a huge vehicles parade in Amman, setting up large Jordanian flags and touring several parts of the capital. 

Telecom company Zain held a major event at King Hussein Park which included several musical performances. 

Jordanian air force members held a show that was received by great jubilation by people while Public Security Department helicopters did an air show as well. 

A Royal Jordanian airplane joined by Royal Jordanian Flacons also did another air show on Monday afternoon. 

On the occasion, the King and the Crown Prince received congratulatory cables from world leaders and senior officials.