His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, yesterday met Pope Leo XIV.
The meeting took place as part of HRH Prince Salman’s official visit to the Vatican and Italy.
He affirmed the kingdom’s commitment, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad, to strengthening relations with the Vatican, and fostering the values of tolerance and coexistence around the world.
HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister underscored the importance of enhancing joint co-ordination and broadening co-operation across diverse fields to realise shared strategic aspirations.
HRH Prince Salman also conveyed the greetings and best wishes of His Majesty to the Pope, expressing hopes for the Vatican’s enduring prosperity. Pope Leo XIV reciprocated with greetings to His Majesty, along with his wishes for Bahrain’s continued progress and prosperity.
HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister affirmed Bahrain’s commitment to the values of mutual respect and its dedication to defending religious freedom and upholding the right to worship.
He highlighted that the strong presence of mosques, churches, and temples in Bahrain embodies the kingdom’s spirit of peace and harmony, as well as its historic commitment to openness and dialogue among civilisations and cultures.
He outlined the leading role of the Vatican in promoting religious coexistence and understanding, advancing global solidarity between faiths.
HRH Prince Salman expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the Pope in advancing the values of coexistence, and the promotion of tolerance, compassion, and peace, and wished him continued health and success in his noble humanitarian endeavours.
Prime Minister’s Court Minister Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Foreign Minister Dr Abdullatif Al Zayani, Finance and National Economy Minister Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa and several senior officials also attended the meeting.