A conference promoting freedom of religion opened today under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.
The three-day conference is being held under the theme “Broadening the Tent… Freedom of Religion and Belief”.
The Kingdom of Bahrain is hosting the conference in cooperation with the European Union. An exhibition was also opened on the sidelines of the three-day conference.
The opening session was attended by Foreign Minister Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, senior invitees, officials and participants.
Addression opening ceremony, King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Coexistence Deputy Chairperson, This is Bahrain Chair Betsy Mathieson described the Kingdom of Bahrain as a role model in peaceful coexistence between religions, noting her experience as a Christian woman who moved to to live in the Kingdom of Bahrain 42 years ago.
“I was fascinated to learn that the first church was built in Bahrain since 1904, and throughout the previous years, I have found nothing in this country but love, cohesion and harmony among all, and this is what made Bahrain a leading country in this field without any other country”, she said.
She pointed out the presence of many temples, churches and various houses of worship, which shows that coexistence and freedom of religions and beliefs are deeply rooted in society since ancient times.
Health Ministry Undersecretary Dr. Waleed Al Manea highlighted Bahrain’s approach during the COVID-19 outbreak, stressing its humanitarian drive in protecting public health anc confronting the pandemic.
“The Kingdom of Bahrain has made equal treatment during the pandemic between citizens and the residents”, he said, noting that everyone benefited from the services and vaccinations without exception.
French Ambassador Jerome Cochard underscored the importance of rejecting hatred and promoting peace that revives nations and contributes to their development.
Source: Bahrain News Agency