Foreign Minister Dr Abdullatif Al Zayani has praised Bahrain’s standing as a leading civilisational model in respecting religious and cultural diversity and promoting human coexistence.
He affirmed that the kingdom has consolidated its global presence as a beacon of tolerance, dialogue and peace under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad, and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
Marking International Day of Living Together in Peace, the minister stressed that Bahrain continues to promote values of national unity, mutual respect and human rights, highlighting the prominent role played by the King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Coexistence in advancing a culture of peace, tolerance and dialogue among religions and cultures.
Dr Al Zayani noted that this occasion coincides with the ‘Year of Shaikh Isa Al Kabeer’, and the listing of Bahrain in the Guinness World Records for having the highest number of places of worship relative to its size – reflecting the kingdom’s deep-rooted civilisational and humanitarian heritage.
He also highlighted royal initiatives supporting tolerance and dialogue, including the launch of the ‘Kingdom of Bahrain Declaration’, the establishment of the King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Coexistence, and calls for an international agreement to criminalise hate speech and sectarian and racist rhetoric, as well as to prevent the misuse of media and digital platforms to incite extremism and terrorism.
On regional affairs, the Foreign Minister affirmed that Bahrain has strengthened its diplomatic presence through its non-permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council for the 2026-2027 term, noting the broad international support for Bahrain’s positions in condemning Iranian attacks on Bahrain and Gulf states.
He stressed that Iranian interference and the mobilisation of militias and terrorist cells constitute a flagrant violation of international law and pose a threat to regional security and stability, affirming that Bahrain will continue pursuing its approach based on moderation, good neighbourliness, and the promotion of peace and coexistence.
He also commended the national solidarity demonstrated by citizens following a meeting between Interior Minister General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa and members of the public, praising the vigilance of security agencies in thwarting terrorist plots linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, and emphasising that the security of the nation and the safety of citizens remain the top priority.
The Foreign Minister reaffirmed Bahrain’s commitment to strengthening its status as an oasis of security and peace and a global model for religious freedom and tolerance.