The government of Pakistan on Sunday conferred the country’s highest civilian award upon Jordan’s King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein during a ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr.

President Asif Ali Zardari conferred the award upon Jordan’s King Abdullah for his contribution towards regional and global peace.

The event featured the national anthems of both countries, with President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in attendance.

According to a statement, President Zardari presented King Abdullah II with the Nishan-e-Pakistan, while the Jordanian King, in return, awarded the Pakistani president the Jordanian honour.

This award is traditionally given to heads of state and distinguished personalities and signifies Jordan’s deep respect, admiration, and friendship toward Pakistan.

King Abdullah II received the award in recognition of his efforts to strengthen bilateral ties, as well as his contributions toward regional and global peace.

The ceremony was also attended by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, federal cabinet members, and foreign diplomats.

People’s Party chairman Bilawal Zardari, First Lady Aseefa Zardari, and other federal ministers were also present at the event.