Bahrain is committed to strengthening international partnerships that promote coexistence, intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding, in line with the vision of His Majesty King Hamad and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Transportation and Telecommunications Minister Dr Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa has affirmed.
The King Hamad Global Centre for Coexistence and Tolerance Board of Trustees chairman participated in the high-level International Conference on Coexistence and Religious Diversity.
The conference, organised by the King Hamad Global Centre for Coexistence and Tolerance in co-operation with Cyprus in Nicosia, brought together senior officials, policymakers, academics, experts, and representatives of government, religious and civil society institutions, alongside delegates from the European Union and Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) member states.
The minister highlighted the importance of the conference amid growing global challenges, including increasing polarisation, social divisions and hate speech.
He stressed the need to reinforce social cohesion and embed the values of coexistence and mutual respect through effective partnerships involving governments, civil society, religious and community leaders, and regional and international organisations.
Dr Shaikh Abdulla also highlighted the close co-operation between Bahrain and Cyprus in organising the conference, describing it as a reflection of the two countries’ shared commitment to promoting coexistence, cultural diversity and stronger Gulf-European co-operation in support of peace, security and stability.
The Chairman noted that these efforts coincide with Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the European Union, Bahrain’s presidency of the current GCC session, and the kingdom’s non-permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council for the 2026–2027 term.
Dr Shaikh Abdulla said the challenge facing societies lies not in diversity itself but in managing it effectively and transforming it into a source of strength rather than division.
He reaffirmed the King Hamad Global Centre for Coexistence and Tolerance’s commitment to advancing dialogue and mutual understanding through education, scientific research, leadership development and international co-operation, emphasising that coexistence is strengthened through institutions, the rule of law and responsible leadership.
The Chairman added that, under its enlightened Royal Vision, Bahrain has established a national model founded on equality, freedom of religion and belief, and respect for diversity.
He reaffirmed the kingdom’s commitment to building international partnerships that translate dialogue into practical action, strengthen social cohesion and contribute to a more peaceful and prosperous world.
The conference examined the role of governments in strengthening social cohesion through legislation and public policy, the contribution of civil society and religious institutions to fostering dialogue and understanding.
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