Manama: Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the National Human Rights Committee, highlighted the strong partnership between Bahrain's executive and legislative branches as a cornerstone of the Kingdom's development and reform efforts. Marking the International Day of Parliamentarism, the minister commended the role of Parliament in advancing democratic principles, transparency, and human rights, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the guidance of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Dr. Al Zayani commended the growing presence and leadership of Bahraini women in parliamentary work, noting their 23% representation in the legislature and their leadership roles, progress made possible by royal support and the initiatives of the Supreme Council for Women (SCW). The minister emphasised the Foreign Ministry's commitment to working closely with Parliament in modernising laws in line with national priorities, including the Government Action Plan and the National Human Rights Plan.
He cited Bahrain's progress in justice reform, alternative sentencing, anti-human trafficking efforts, and protections for women and families. Dr. Al Zayani also commended the Kingdom's active role in parliamentary diplomacy, including the successful hosting of the 146th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly in 2023, which urged global calls for gender equality, youth inclusion, dialogue among civilizations, and combating hate speech.
The minister concluded by underlined Bahrain's continued engagement with international parliamentary bodies and its commitment to promoting peace, dialogue, and innovation, particularly in empowering youth through modern technologies, including artificial intelligence to build a more inclusive and secure future.