King Abdullah II Visits Maryland State House

Maryland Governor Wes Moore welcomed King Abdullah II of Jordan to the Maryland State House for a historic roundtable discussion with local business and education leaders, marking the first visit by a foreign head of state for official business in Annapolis. The meeting aimed to foster cooperation and explore common goals between Maryland and Jordan, with participants from various sectors including technology and higher education. King Abdullah, who had just addressed the United Nations, emphasized the importance of humanitarian aid amidst regional conflicts. Moore, a former paratrooper, and Abdullah, a former commander of Jordan’s Special Forces, expressed a strong personal rapport. This visit reflects Maryland's initiatives to strengthen international relations and economic ties, with Maryland also being noted for its diverse business incentives and strong STEM workforce. The visit was significant not only for its diplomatic implications but also for potential economic collaborations between the two regions.