His Majesty King Abdullah on Thursday said independence is a continual state of giving and self-reliance to build a future fit for the free people of Jordan.

In an address to the nation on the 60th anniversary of Independence Day, the King said "it is our right and our duty [today] to remember, with pride and appreciation, the founding fathers, all of the pioneers, who contributed to the building of our homeland.

They did so in the face of many challenges over the past sixty years and persevered in spite of a scarcity of resources and material capabilities, and of the tragedies and wars to which this region was subjected."

During a Zahran Palace ceremony, attended by senior officials and community leaders, His Majesty said: "When we say Jordan First, we mean that we should complete the building of a Jordan that is strong and invincible, able to provide support and assist the Arab brethren, whether in Palestine, or Iraq, or any other Arab country.

It does not mean deserting our duty towards our nation or its just causes, as some short-sighted people believe. Jordan was, and will always be, a sanctuary for all free Arabs; therefore we say, Jordan First, Jordan always, and Jordan under all circumstances and conditions."