Diplomatic missions representing countries around the globe every year come together to help the Kingdom’s underprivileged children. The Annual Diplomatic Bazaar, the proceeds of which go to support Mabarrat Um Al Hussein, marked its 46th year yesterday, showcasing crafts and cuisines of 63 nations. Ambassadors, their spouses and embassy staff gathered at the Amman Exhibitions Park for “a good cause”, selling items ranging from Norwegian waffles, American hotdogs and Malaysian satay chicken, to Sudanese hand-woven baskets, Pakistani furniture and Ukrainean dolls.
“This diplomatic bazaar embodies the values of generosity, enthusiasm and compassion,” Princess Basma told The Jordan Times, adding that she was “inspired” by the hard work of diplomatic missions in the Kingdom. “No matter how much we plan, when it actually happens and you see their efforts, you feel quite overwhelmed with goodwill and spirit,” she said.
Norwegian ambassador Petter Ølberg stated "Norway participated together with Nordic countries. In Norway we have a special term for joint efforts like this Bazaar. We call it “dugnad”, and it means an activity where everyone joins without pay for a common goal. It is used on the local level (sport teams, neighbourhoods etc.) but also nationally. The idea is always that everyone contributes to the benefit of all. This is indeed what was the case also with the Annual Diplomatic Bazaar in Amman, in support of Mabarrat Um Al Hussein."