His Majesty King Abdullah on Monday said historic changes and challenges and breakthroughs in human knowledge and opportunity are taking place and yet, for vast numbers across the globe, the daily realities have not altered.

“Their world is one of poverty, unemployment, hardship and relentless conflict,” King Abdullah said in a Georgetown University ceremony, where His Majesty received an honorary doctorate in literature and humanities.

Addressing a gathering of professors and students at the university, King Abdullah said: “Ours is a moment of great potential, for my region and the world. It can be an era of openness, cooperation and advancement - a time for ending old divisions, and expanding prosperity. But we will not achieve that potential until we reach the voiceless majority. It is time to give them new reasons to hope, and meaningful ways to participate - economically, politically, and in shaping our global culture. Most important, people need confidence that opportunity is available to all.”

The honorary degree was awarded to King Abdullah in recognition of his efforts to achieve peace and prosperity in the region as well as promoting reforms, democracy and dialogue among cultures and people.