Their Majesties King Abdullah and Queen Rania, along with His Royal Highness Crown Prince Hussein, on Wednesday attended a celebration hosted by Prime Minister Marouf Bakhit on the occasion of the 65th anniversary of Jordan’s independence.

At the celebration, held at the Palace of Culture, King Abdullah decorated several Jordanians in recognition of their efforts and contributions in their fields.

In a speech, Prime Minister Bakhit reviewed the Kingdom’s achievements over the years, stressing that the Kingdom will remain stronger than challenges and completely able to overcome all obstacles.

 “In light of the major changes around us, and thanks to your wise leadership and the courage of all Jordanians, we are confident that we will overcome all challenges, as we have always done,” said the premier.

Referring to the King’s position in defending the Palestinian issue and their rights to statehood, and return and compensation for refugees, he said Jordan has stood firmly in the face of all attempts to liquidate the Palestinian issue at the expense of Jordan’s interests.

In his remarks at the ceremony, Senate President Taher Masri spoke about the Kingdom’s ongoing reform efforts, and commended Jordan’s role in championing Arab causes, chief among which is the Palestinian cause.

Lower House Speaker Faisal Fayez also addressed attendees, saying the Kingdom has successfully addressed challenges and difficulties since its establishment, adding that Jordanians remain confident of the country’s future in spite of recent regional upheaval.

He stressed that the Jordanian community is united.

Several Royal family members along with Arab and foreign ambassadors, religious leaders, military and security officers attended the ceremony.

Jordan won its full independence and was declared a Kingdom on May 25, 1946 following the end of the British mandate.

King Abdullah received several cables from Arab and world leaders, congratulating him on the occasion.