Manama: Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs, inaugurated the 2026 Diplomatic Forum, coinciding with Bahrain Diplomatic Day, which is observed annually on January 14. The event was attended by key figures including Ayman Safadi, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and Expatriate Affairs of Jordan, and Hamad bin Faisal Al Malki, Minister of Cabinet Affairs.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Dr. Al Zayani expressed gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for designating January 14 as Bahrain Diplomatic Day. He acknowledged the role of Bahraini diplomacy in implementing the Kingdom's foreign policy and enhancing Bahrain's international standing.
The Foreign Minister also expressed thanks to His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for supporting the ministry and its staff. He highlighted the intense diplomatic activity in 2025 amid a complex environment, noting that the King's vision promoted peace, tolerance, and coexistence.
Dr. Al Zayani mentioned the outcomes of significant events such as the Bahrain Summit in May 2024 and the GCC Supreme Council session in December 2025, which reinforced Bahrain's position as a dialogue platform. He also pointed to the successful hosting of the Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference and the Manama Dialogue.
The Foreign Minister highlighted the progress in Bahrain's bilateral relations through official visits and agreements with other countries. He noted Bahrain's role in addressing regional security challenges, including conflicts in Gaza, Sudan, and elsewhere. Bahraini diplomacy was involved in conferences aimed at peace and facilitated citizen evacuations from conflict zones.
Dr. Al Zayani also underscored the ministry's involvement in the national exercise "Azm Al Watan 1," demonstrating institutional readiness. Bahrain's candidacy for a UN Security Council seat for 2026-2027 was mentioned as a commitment to balanced international decision-making.
The Foreign Minister added that 2026 brings major responsibilities for Bahrain, including the presidency of the GCC Supreme Council and the UN Security Council. He emphasized the role of diplomatic missions in conveying Bahrain's positive image and contributing to these responsibilities.
Dr. Al Zayani discussed efforts to improve ministry productivity with digital tools like the bilateral relations platform and the Mawaqif application. These innovations aim to enhance diplomats' performance and the ministry's institutional work.
The Foreign Minister concluded by highlighting the strong team spirit within the diplomatic corps, expressing confidence in their ability to represent Bahrain effectively, supported by leadership and institutional expertise.