CCSM lauds the King’s address: A steadfast Jordanian voice in defence of peace, Christian presence

The Catholic Center for Studies and Media (CCSM)  in Jordan has lauded the content of His Majesty King Abdullah II Ibn Al Hussein’s speech before the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, which highlighted the steadfast and responsible Jordanian position in defending human dignity, the rule of international law, as well as the right of peoples to security, peace, and stability, at a time when the world and the region are facing successive crises that threaten humanity and its future.

A statement issued by CCSM’s Director Fr. Dr. Rif’at Bader commended His Majesty’s affirmation that Jordan continues to protect Christianity, including its communities and heritage, and in its historic homeland which is a message reflecting Jordan’s deep-rooted role in safeguarding the Christian presence in the East, while preserving its identity and heritage, as well as consolidating the model of common living and fraternity between Muslims and Christians. The CCSM also praised the King’s remarks on “defending the true image of Islam against voices of hatred,”  which it termed as reflecting the Hashemite balance between the two sides, namely on the one hand protecting Christians, and on the other defending the true image of Islam.

Furthermore, the CCSM emphasized the importance of His Majesty the King’s reaffirmation that Jordan would continue to shoulder its responsibility as the Hashemite custodian of the Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, while preserving their historic and legal status. This stand serves as a cogent guarantee for protecting the identity of the Holy City and its holy sites, as well as safeguarding the rights of Churches and Christian communities there.

The CCSM expressed its appreciation for the clear position expressed in this speech regarding the suffering of the Palestinian people, particularly in Gaza and the West Bank, and for the affirmation on the need to end the cycle of violence and displacement, to support the steadfastness of the Palestinian people, and to achieve a just peace that safeguards rights and human dignity, rather than continuing to pursue the logic of war and imposing realities through force.

The CCSM views His Majesty the King’s assertion that military force can neither create genuine solutions nor build peace conveys an ethical and humanitarian message to which the world needs to listen today, since genuine peace can only be built on justice, respect for human dignity, trust among peoples, and commitment to international law.

The CCSM asserted that under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II, Jordan continues to present a model based on moderation, steadfastness, and openness, as well as on defending humanity, holy sites, and peace, so that it remains a voice resounding in the international community which calls for a region in which all its peoples can enjoy security, justice, and dignity, free from wars, hatred, and extremism.