PM conveys Christmas greetings, visits Latin Patriarchate

AMMAN — Prime Minister Bisher Khasawneh on Monday visited the Latin Patriarchate in Amman and extended greetings to Christians in Jordan on the occasion of Christmas and the New Year.

Speaking at the meeting, Khasawneh remembered the fallen police officers and wished the injured a speedy recovery, commending solidarity shown by Jordan Council of Church heads in their decision to cancel Christmas celebrations to mourn the loss of the security personnel, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

The premier highlighted Christians' efforts towards building the modern Jordanian state and enhancing harmony among citizens.

He also drew attention to the church and Christians' "central" role in Jerusalem, notably supporting the Hashemite Custodianship over the holy city's Islamic and Christian shrines against any unilateral measures aimed to change the historical and legal status quo in Jerusalem, Petra reported.

Welcoming the prime minister and an accompanying ministerial team, Latin Patriarchal Vicar for Jordan Bishop Jamal Daibes said that the visit reflects harmony that Jordanians enjoy, noting that besides the religious rituals, multiple activities were carried out by the churches to create a joyful atmosphere for all, notably children and the needy. 

The bishop also expressed appreciation for the security personnel's efforts to ensure safety during the religious occasion and extended condolences to Jordanians and the families of the fallen police officers.