WASHINGTON: A historic deal described as the start of a golden path towards peace was signed yesterday by Bahrain’s Foreign Minister in Washington.
On directives from His Majesty King Hamad, Dr Abdullatif Al Zayani took part in the signing ceremony of the declaration of support for peace between Bahrain and Israel, and the signing of a peace accord between the UAE, the US and Israel.
The ceremony was held at the White House, in the presence of US President Donald Trump.
US Vice President Mike Pence, UAE Foreign Minister Shaikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and White House senior adviser Jared Kushner were also present .
In his speech on the occasion, Dr Al Zayani said the declaration supporting peace between Bahrain and Israel is “a historic step on the road to genuine and lasting peace, security and prosperity across the region, and for all who live there, regardless of religion, sect, ethnicity, or ideology”.
“Today’s declaration was made possible by the vision, courage and commitment of His Majesty King Hamad, who, supported by the people of Bahrain – has protected, institutionalised, and enhanced Bahrain’s centuries-old spirit of coexistence and harmony, and has the wisdom to recognise that genuine co-operation is the most effective means to achieve peace and to safeguard the legitimate rights,” he said.
“Thank you, Your Majesty, for this vision of peace for the region based on trust, respect and understanding between all faiths, races and nations.”
Dr Al Zayani congratulated “our brothers in the UAE” on their own momentous peace accord with Israel and commended Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed for his “great leadership and foresight to make peace possible and secure a brighter future for our region”.
The minister also thanked President Trump and his administration.
“Mr President, your statesmanship and tireless efforts have brought us here today and made peace a reality. And to secretary Pompeo, senior adviser Jared Kushner, and special representative Avi Berkowitz who have all carried out their mandates with dedication and skill.
“Today’s agreement is an important first step, and it is now incumbent on us to work urgently and actively to bring about the lasting peace and security our peoples deserve. A just, comprehensive and enduring two-state solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict will be the foundation – the bedrock – of such peace,” he said.
President Trump said “the agreements will serve as a foundation, as a comprehensive peace across the region”.
“We mark the dawn of a new Middle East thanks to the great courage of these three countries. We take a major stride towards a future in which people of all faiths and backgrounds live together in peace and prosperity.”
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