His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, was yesterday presented with Bahrain’s Guinness World Records certificate recognising the kingdom as having the highest density of places of worship for different religions.
The honour was handed over by Transportation and Telecommunications Minister and King Hamad Global Centre (KHGC) for Coexistence and Tolerance board of trustees chairman Dr Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa during a meeting at Gudaibiya Palace.
The moment marks a global milestone, underscoring international recognition of Bahrain’s longstanding efforts to promote religious tolerance and coexistence, and reinforcing its role in safeguarding religious freedoms.
Bahrain entered the Guinness record for the highest density of houses of worship in a country, with 2.577 per square kilometre, breaking the previous record of 2.300, as reported in the GDN. With a population of just 1,588,670, Bahrain supports an extraordinary 2,123 houses of worship, serving both Abrahamic and non-Abrahamic faiths. KHGC was presented with the certificate at a ceremony in Manama on January 28 this year.
During the meeting yesterday, HRH Prince Salman affirmed Bahrain’s forward-looking approach rooted in coexistence, tolerance and pluralism – values which are upheld by His Majesty King Hamad.
He also noted Bahrainis’ openness to different cultures and beliefs, which has contributed to strengthening the kingdom’s standing as a global destination for cultures and religions.
He commended this international achievement, which adds to the kingdom’s strong track record of accomplishments across various fields.
HRH Prince Salman reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to implementing the visions and directives of His Majesty in further strengthening Bahrain’s unique and progressive model.
This commitment is reflected in continued support for efforts that promote tolerance and religious freedom, safeguard the right to practise religion, and uphold respect for all faiths.
His Royal Highness also highlighted Bahrain’s ongoing commitment to fostering a culture of coexistence among cultures, communities, and different beliefs, and to promoting the values of peace and mutual respect.
He highlighted the vital role played by the King Hamad Global Centre for Coexistence and Tolerance in further strengthening Bahrain’s position. His Royal Highness extended his best wishes to the chairman and members of the centre for continued success in advancing its goals and aspirations.
Dr Shaikh Abdulla expressed his gratitude to HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister for his unwavering support of the centre’s initiatives and activities.
Finance and National Economy Minister Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa and Cabinet Affairs Minister Hamad Al Malki also attended the meeting.
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