Bahrain yesterday reiterated that a just, comprehensive and enduring two-state solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict will be the foundation and the bedrock of regional peace.
Foreign Minister Dr Abdullatif Al Zayani made the statement as he took part in a signing ceremony for the declaration of support for peace between Bahrain and Israel, and a peace accord between the UAE, the US and Israel.
The landmark agreement was described as a “first step” and “a turning point” in the path to peace in the Middle East.
The ceremony was held at the White House, in the presence of US President Donald Trump.
It was also attended by 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.
Dr Al Zayani, in his keynote speech, praised the declaration supporting peace between Bahrain and Israel as a golden opportunity.
“It’s 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.”
Dr Al Zayani highlighted His Majesty’s belief that genuine co-operation was the most effective means to achieve peace and safeguard legitimate rights.
“Thank you, Your Majesty, for this vision of peace for the region based on trust, respect and understanding between all faiths, races and nations.
“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.
“We have shown today that such a path is possible, even realistic. What was only dreamed of a few years ago is now achievable, and we can see before us a golden opportunity for peace, security and prosperity for our region.
“Let us – together, and with our international partners – waste no time in seizing it.”
Dr Al Zayani congratulated “our brothers in the UAE” on their own momentous peace accord with Israel. He also 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 expressed his particular and deep appreciation to 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.”
Dr Al Zayani also thanked Prime Minister Netanyahu.
In his speech, President Trump said Bahrain, the UAE and Israel will exchange ambassadors and begin to work together to co-operate.
Mr Netanyahu praised the day as “a pivot of history that heralds a new dawn of peace”.
He expressed gratitude to His Majesty for joining in bringing hope to all the children of Abraham.
Earlier yesterday, President Trump received Dr Al Zayani at the White House.
He expressed appreciation to His Majesty for his wise vision and keenness to promote peace, stability and prosperity in the Middle East, praising the historic friendship and strategic partnership between the two friendly countries.
He also welcomed the signing of the declaration, considering it a historical achievement in the path to achieve comprehensive peace in the Middle East and fulfil the aspirations of its people.
Dr Al Zayani valued the efforts of the US President and his administration to achieve such a historic step that paved the way to establishing peace in the region.
He also praised bilateral co-operation in all areas and commended the role of the US in maintaining security and stability and combating terrorism in the region.
The two sides discussed areas of co-operation between the two countries, and ways to enhance and develop bilateral co-ordination to serve their common interests, in addition to the latest regional developments.
The meeting was attended by US Vice President Mike Pence, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Secretary of the Treasury Stephen Mnuchin, senior adviser to the US President Jared Kushner and a number of officials in the US administration.
Bahrain’s Ambassador to the US Shaikh Abdulla bin Rashid Al Khalifa, Foreign Ministry Under-Secretary for International Affairs Dr Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa and Ambassador Houda Noonoo also attended the meeting from the Bahraini side.
- His Majesty received cables of congratulations from senior Ruling Family members, ministers, senior officials, National Assembly members, governors and diplomats.
He was congratulated by his adviser Shaikh Khalid bin Mohammed bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister’s adviser Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, National Guard chief General Shaikh Mohammed bin Isa Al Khalifa, Southern Governor Shaikh Khalifa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Cabinet Affairs Ministry Under-Secretary Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, National Audit Office president Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Electricity and Water Affairs Minister Wael Al Mubarak, Capital Governor Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Foreign Ministry Under-Secretary and member of the Supreme Council for Women Dr Shaikha Rana bint Isa Al Khalifa, GFH Capital board chairman Shaikh Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Deputy Southern Governor Brigadier Isa Thamer Al Dossari, Shura Council member Hala Ramzi Fayez, MP Khalid bin Saleh Buong, Dr Ali Ahmed Mohammed Al Kharfoosh (on behalf of the Al Kharfush Family), International Peace Institute president Terje Rød-Larsen and Cassation Court president and deputy chairman of the Supreme Judicial Council Chancellor Abdullah bin Hassan Al Buainain.
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