On Sunday, February 16, 2025, President of the Hashemite University Professor Khalid Al-Hiyari, welcomed His Beatitude  Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem and his accompanying delegation, in the presence of member of the university's board of trustees Dr. 'Isa Haddad, the university's vice presidents, deans of faculties, and a number of faculty members.

At the outset of the meeting, Dr. Hiyari welcomed Cardinal Pizzaballa and the accompanying delegation and stressed that Jordan, under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II Ibn Al Hussein, has represented throughout the years a model of common living in the region and the world, where cultures and member of the society co-exist in an atmosphere of brotherhood, tolerance, and cooperation. He added that the efforts of His Majesty King Abdullah II has contributed to the launching of the World Interfaith Harmony Week, which is an international function that has been celebrated worldwide since 2010 to promote global understanding and dialogue.

Dr. Hiyari presented a briefing about the Hashemite University's 30-year achievements in Zarqa Governorate which sets a model in achieving the nation's message of progress, prosperity, comprehensive and sustainable development of the local community, in addition to its role in supporting creative human resources, creating a university environment that stimulates innovation and leadership, keenness to provide quality education, its promotion of the values ​​of tolerance and moderation, as well as rejection of bigotry and extremism in all their forms. He also touched on the continuous development of plans and programs to graduate competitive students, in addition to the role of the university in providing unique courses that enhance common human values foremost of which are dialogue, respect for differences, and acceptance of others. He also noted that the university provides a friendly environment supportive of women while energizing the capabilities of the youth.

He continued that the university has an advanced position in the approved international classifications and that it is keen to maintain a high-quality education, as it has obtained numerous international accreditations in its various faculties and educational programs. He also discussed the current international research and academic partnerships, stressing that the university functions within a promising plan to keep pace with the Fourth Industrial Revolution by offering programs and developing plans.

For his part, Cardinal Pizzaballa expressed thanks to the president of the university for the warm welcome accorded to him and lauded the strong relations among the components of the Jordanian society. In his address, he stressed the importance of encounters that enhance the message of peace and love among religions, and called for the continuation of spreading the message of inter-faith harmony.

Cardinal Pizzaballa also referred to the importance of visiting Jordan and getting acquainted with its historical and cultural landmarks that extend throughout history. Furthermore, he praised the efforts of the concerned parties in supporting religious tourism in Jordan, stressing that Jordan represents a model of common living and hospitality.

Member of the university's board of trustees Dr. 'Isa Haddad praised the role played by the university in serving the local community in Zarqa Governorate by providing a variety of services including training programs that respond to the needs of the local community in the labor market, in addition to its role in promoting health and environmental awareness among others.

Dean of Queen Rania Faculty of Tourism and Heritage highlighted the faculty's role in archaeological excavations, spreading information about religious tourism in Jordan, and enhancing its position at the global religious tourism map.

Director of the Catholic Center for Studies and Media in Jordan Fr. Dr. Rif'at Bader praised the efforts of the Hashemite University in Jordan and at the regional level, especially with regards to its contributions to scientific research as well as to holding conferences, and seminars.

During the meeting, discussions focused on the role of universities in promoting human values, enhancing scientific research that serves local communities, propagating archaeological treasures in Jordan which enhances religious tourism, in addition to holding seminars and conferences promote harmony among peoples and religions.