Manama: Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs, conducted a video conference with Bahrain's overseas diplomatic mission heads, senior ministry officials, and the United Nations Security Council affairs team in New York and at the ministry. The discussion centered on preparations for Bahrain's non-permanent UN Security Council membership for 2026-2027.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Dr. Al Zayani emphasized that Bahrain's membership marks a historic milestone for the nation's diplomacy, aligning with His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa's vision to foster peace and stability regionally and globally. He highlighted Bahrain's diplomatic accomplishments, including the 2019 "Peace for Prosperity" workshop, the Abraham Accords, hosting the 33rd Arab Summit in 2024, and the resultant Sakhir Declaration endorsing the recognition of the State of Palestine. Additionally, Bahrain is leading the current Gulf Cooperation Council session, with its active role in the Security Council beginning January 2026, culminating in Bahrain chairing the Arab League Council at the ministerial level in March 2026, followed by its presidency of the Security Council in April.
The Foreign Minister detailed Bahrain's Security Council priorities, focusing on Arab issues with emphasis on the Palestinian cause, situations in Sudan, Syria, Lebanon, Libya, and Yemen, international conflicts, cybersecurity, maritime security, and the roles of women and youth in peace and security. Bahrain aims to propose initiatives tackling crisis roots and supporting youth through education, health, and protection from extremism.
He pointed out that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' preparation involved selecting and training diplomats on relevant matters, conducting joint simulations between the New York team and ministry's headquarters to refine working mechanisms, and expediting the formation of positions and obtaining directives. Twelve diplomats were selected to manage key files at the UN mission, supported by internal teams for efficient communication and responses to Security Council issues.
Dr. Al Zayani stressed that during preparations, Bahrain coordinated with Arab countries, including Morocco, the UAE, Jordan, and Algeria, to develop a sustainable Arab approach in the Security Council. This approach seeks to strengthen consistency in Arab positions across successive terms and enhance Arab diplomacy in addressing peace and security issues, receiving strong support from partner countries.
The Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of Team Bahrain working in unity across the ministry and its missions abroad. He noted that Bahrain's success in the Security Council and its current GCC chairmanship reflects the strength of its diplomacy. He called for improved communication, expertise exchange, and close monitoring of Bahrain's Security Council performance to support national goals and showcase the Kingdom's regional and international capabilities.
He reiterated Bahrain's commitment to peace and human solidarity, striving for a safer, stable international future, and expressed confidence in joint efforts leading to significant achievements. These efforts reflect the vision of His Majesty the King and the guidance of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, enhancing Bahrain's international standing.
The meeting concluded with remarks and suggestions from diplomatic mission heads on Bahrain's commencement of its non-permanent Security Council membership.