Manama: Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the National Human Rights Committee, said the humanitarian and diplomatic approach of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has consolidated the Kingdom of Bahrain's position as a leading global model of tolerance, coexistence, and respect for religious and cultural diversity. He noted that this approach has also reinforced Bahrain's role as a key partner in promoting regional and international security, peace, and dialogue among civilizations.
According to Bahrain News Agency, marking the International Day for Tolerance, Dr. Al Zayani expressed pride in Bahrain's vision under the leadership of His Majesty the King and the guidance of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. He said this vision supports the protection of human rights and religious freedoms, and advances noble humanitarian values, solidarity, and mutual understanding within cohesive, sustainable societies built on unity, stability, and respect among religions and cultures. He noted that these values form a core element of the Government Plan and the National Human Rights Plan.
The minister highlighted the Kingdom's pioneering initiatives to promote tolerance and coexistence, including the 'Kingdom of Bahrain Declaration' on freedom of religion and belief, the establishment of the King Hamad Global Centre for Coexistence and Tolerance, and its programmes to enhance community awareness and prepare youth as ambassadors of peace. He also noted Bahrain's emphasis on education in promoting mutual understanding, its call for an international convention to criminalise religious and racial hate speech, and its organisation of global conferences supporting interfaith and intercultural dialogue, as well as the launch of the King Hamad Prize for Coexistence and Tolerance and other international humanitarian awards.
Dr. Al Zayani said Bahrain's record in promoting coexistence and human rights has been recognised internationally, citing the adoption by the United Nations of Bahrain's initiatives on the International Days of Living Together in Peace, Conscience, and Human Fraternity. He also highlighted Bahrain's election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2026-2027 and its upcoming chairmanship of the Arab Group at UNESCO, among other high-level international roles that reflect global appreciation for Bahrain's principles and contributions to peace and sustainable development.
He emphasised Bahrain's commitment, under the leadership of His Majesty the King and the support of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to strengthening regional and international cooperation in promoting tolerance and human fraternity, advancing dialogue among peoples, combating extremism, hatred, and terrorism, and continuing its civilisational role as a centre of religious freedom, cultural openness, and global peace.