King calls for engaging youth in politics, charting nation’s future

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday called for engaging young people in charting the nation’s future and enhancing their political participation.

During a meeting at Al Husseiniya Palace with members of the House of Representatives’ Al Mostaqbal bloc, King Abdullah stressed that political life cannot develop without effective parliamentary blocs and political parties that represent all Jordanians and have clear platforms trusted by the public, a Royal Court statement said.

Jordan’s development and progress, and the importance of securing a brighter future for Jordanians should be the goals of all, His Majesty affirmed.

The King called for clarifying plans and future goals to citizens, especially in the political, economic and social fields.

His Majesty also stressed the importance of building public trust in government and Parliament, while institutionalising the work of parliamentary blocs to take on an active role in identifying priorities and presenting solutions to address national challenges.

The King’s meeting with the 13-member Al Mostaqbal bloc is part of ongoing outreach to parliamentary blocs to encourage them to build platforms to contribute to political, economic, and social progress.

Deputy Ahmad Safadi, who chairs the bloc, thanked His Majesty for the outreach, noting the importance of giving a more prominent role to blocs at the House of Representatives.

Bloc members highlighted the need to develop partisanship in Jordan, reaching a stage where the country has three to four strong political currents that can actively contribute to decision-making.

The lawmakers also noted that the Political Parties Law should be developed further to bolster parties’ role in public life and encourage citizens to join them.

Although Parliament should focus on oversight and legislation, the MPs said it has taken on a service-related role.

They stressed the need for government-Parliament collaboration, calling for promoting investment opportunities, and supporting local investors to overcome poverty and unemployment, according to the statement.

The lawmakers said Jordan’s foreign policy, led by His Majesty, has enhanced Jordan’s international image and indicated its pivotal regional role, noting the King’s support for the Palestinian people as they seek their legitimate right to statehood.

The MPs also thanked His Majesty for issuing directives for a general pardon, which they said has had a positive impact on Jordanians.

Royal Hashemite Court Chief Yousef Issawi and Adviser to His Majesty and Director of the Office of His Majesty Manar Dabbas attended the meeting.