His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday said free and successful societies must open the doors to opportunity and hope for all.

"This is because every person has a right to make the most of their life and every person has a contribution to make to their nation," King Abdullah said during a ceremony at the UN headquarters announcing Jordan a winner of the Franklin Delano Roosevelt International Disability Award.

The Kingdom is the first Arab country to win the award.

Speakers during the event praised Jordan's efforts to enact legislations which guarantee the disabled equality. They also voiced appreciation for King Abdullah's endeavors to achieve peace and prosperity in the entire region. They said Jordan was one of the first Middle Eastern countries to enact disability-specific legislation.

"Jordan's commitment to the disabled begins with the devoted work of so many people. I think first and foremost of my father, His Late Majesty King Hussein, and his enduring message that every member of the Jordanian family is precious. I think also of dedicated public officials, and members of non-governmental organizations, and even private citizens, who have taken tremendous initiatives," said His Majesty the King.

Full text of remarks