Manama: True security is multi-layered and depends on sincere and lasting cooperation among nations, said Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs. Dr. Al Zayani emphasized that security must be built on a vision aligning with the aspirations of the region's peoples, grounded in coexistence, tolerance, and respect among diverse religions, cultures, and beliefs.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Dr. Al Zayani shared these insights during the plenary session titled 'Securing the Gulf: Diplomacy, Economics, and Defence' at the 21st IISS Manama Dialogue 2025. The event was organized by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Dr. Al Zayani highlighted Bahrain's belief that conflicts are best resolved through mutual understanding and dialogue, fostering environments that unite communities to face shared challenges.
He also discussed the critical role of education and cultural exchange in promoting tolerance, building trust, and ensuring that every voice contributes to shaping the future. Security, as he described, involves protecting national territory, safeguarding citizens and infrastructure, and maintaining global connectivity through freedom of navigation, cybersecurity, and the free flow of trade and information.
Dr. Al Zayani noted that sustainable security relies on genuine cooperation with regional and international partners. He pointed to Bahrain's pride in its defence partnerships within the GCC and with international allies through counterterrorism and anti-piracy coalitions, as well as initiatives to enhance maritime security and capacity-building.
He highlighted Bahrain's role as host of the Combined Maritime Forces, a 47-nation coalition securing vital maritime routes in the Arabian Gulf, the Red Sea, and the Gulf of Aden. The establishment of the Arab League Council of Cybersecurity Ministers also reflects the region's proactive approach to emerging threats.
Dr. Al Zayani emphasized that cooperation is strengthened by agreements such as the GCC Joint Defence Agreement, which states that an attack on one member is an attack on all. He stressed that true security cannot be achieved by a single nation acting alone.
The minister underscored economic development and regional integration as key components of security. He stated that a fragmented region, beset by economic instability, cannot be fully secure. By fostering economic interdependence, immediate benefits for citizens can be provided, reinforcing trust and cooperation, and making conflict less likely.
Dr. Al Zayani mentioned that GCC member states are advancing towards completing the Customs Union and establishing a Common Market, laying the foundation for full GCC citizenship while deepening global trade and investment ties, including through free trade agreements with international partners.
He cited the Comprehensive Security, Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA), signed between Bahrain and the United States and later joined by the United Kingdom, as a practical example of how prosperity and security are interconnected. The agreement embodies the enduring truth that shared security is inseparable from shared prosperity.
He added hopes for this framework to include more partners who share the vision for a rules-based, cooperative order in the Gulf. Dr. Al Zayani highlighted the role of effective diplomacy that respects sovereignty, advocates for non-interference, promotes peaceful settlement of disputes, and fosters good neighbourly relations. This vision, guided by the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, continues to shape Bahrain's foreign policy as the Kingdom works to build 'Coalitions for Peace' to strengthen regional stability.
Addressing regional issues, Dr. Al Zayani identified the Palestinian-Israeli conflict as the root of instability in the Middle East, stressing the need for a just and lasting resolution. He expressed optimism about recent progress in international diplomacy on Gaza, particularly the Peace Plan proposed by His Excellency Donald Trump, President of the United States of America, and supported by regional mediators.
He noted the potential of the plan to foster a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Gaza, facilitating broader regional peace. Dr. Al Zayani underscored the need for renewed diplomatic commitment to ensure that all parties fulfil their obligations comprehensively and in good faith, with the support of all nations seeking peace in the Middle East.
The minister stressed that a secure and prosperous Gulf and Middle East will remain elusive unless the Palestinian people achieve their legitimate right to an independent and sovereign state, living in peace and security alongside Israel. Dr. Al Zayani emphasized the need for resolution of the Iran nuclear file through renewed negotiations between the United States and Iran.
He added the necessity to support Lebanon in implementing UNSC Resolution 1701 and the Taif Agreement, assist Syria on its path toward stability, support Saudi Arabia and Oman's efforts to advance peace in Yemen, and back the Quartet in mediating a peaceful resolution in Sudan.