At the invitation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, King Abdullah II ibn al-Hussein of Jordan arrived in Uzbekistan today on a state visit.
According to the presidential press service, President Mirziyoyev personally welcomed the King at Samarkand International Airport, where the national flags of both countries were raised and an honor guard was lined up. The ceremony also featured performances of traditional songs and dances.
The main events of the visit are scheduled for tomorrow. On the first day, however, the two heads of state toured the ancient city of Samarkand, exploring its architectural treasures and cultural heritage.
The visit began at the Shakhi-Zinda complex, which includes the mausoleum of Qusam ibn Abbas, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad, along with other historical figures. The site, inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2001, reflects centuries of development in architecture and decorative arts. King Abdullah II, a member of the Hashemite dynasty that traces its lineage to the Prophet Muhammad’s daughter Fatimah and his son-in-law Ali ibn Abi Talib, paid tribute at the mausoleum of Qusam ibn Abbas, where verses from the Qur’an were recited.
The delegation then visited the mausoleum of Amir Temur. The guests were briefed on the state-building policies of the great military leader, his diplomatic ties with other countries, and his role in creating one of the most powerful empires of his time. The life and legacy of Sahibkiran left a strong impression on the Jordanian visitors.
The two leaders also toured the Registan complex, which includes the Ulugh Beg, Sherdor, and Tillya-Kori madrasahs. For centuries, Registan has attracted scholars and served as a center of learning, while its architectural symmetry and grandeur have earned it the reputation of Samarkand’s “calling card.” King Abdullah II was presented with information on the history of the site’s construction, its unique ornamental patterns, and the restoration work carried out on the square.
