King Abdullah Pre-Story

King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein of Jordan will speak at the University of Mississippi campus today to address a variety of issues, including yet not limited to: current political conflicts in the Middle East, Jordan’s attempts at creating unity among the faiths and the nation’s current internal reform process.

He will begin his address at 2 p.m. at the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts. Those who wish to attend are advised to arrive early, as the doors will close at 1 p.m.

The United States Secret Service will handle all security measures, and attendees will be asked to walk through metal detectors.

Large bags and electronic devices, such as cell phones, PDAs and CD or MP3 players, are prohibited. Cameras are allowed, but be advised that they will be inspected by security personnel.

If you cannot attend the address, but would like to experience the king’s speech, rest assured that it will be televised on channel 99 for local cable subscribers. Worldwide, people will be able to watch a webcast at the university’s web site.

Be advised that if you wish to view the webcast, you will need Windows Media Player 9 or better, or Quicktime 7, to see and hear the king.

For directions to the Ford Center, you may utilize the following map. The Center is building #126:

King Abdullah visits the university on the heels of his recent tour of Pakistan, India, China and Malaysia.

Prior to leaving Pakistan, the king stressed the need for improving trade relations, in terms of policy and economics, as well as on a person-to-person level.

He agreed with leaders that the current and impending nuclear stand off with Iran should be resolved peacefully.