Manama: International journalists and experts participating in the 2025 International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Manama Dialogue highlighted Bahrain’s vital role in promoting dialogue and fostering regional and global cooperation. They praised the forum for providing an active platform for exchanging views on security, stability, and development, as well as Bahrain’s balanced diplomatic approach, which has made the Kingdom a trusted centre for constructive dialogue and international understanding.
According to Bahrain News Agency, speaking on the sidelines of the Manama Dialogue, which concluded yesterday, participants noted the forum provided an inclusive space for discussion and the exchange of ideas among leaders, decision-makers, and thinkers from around the world. This enhanced mutual understanding and reaffirmed Bahrain’s position as a reliable partner in advancing regional peace and security efforts.
Journalist and writer Baria Alamuddin described Bahrain as “the exact right place” for meaningful international discussion at a time of widespread global unrest. She emphasized the significance of the Gulf region in maintaining peace, security, and economic prosperity, noting Bahrain’s commitment to dialogue and justice.
Yea Kyung, Senior Manager and Leader of Global Public Affairs at Korea-based Hanwha Aerospace, highlighted the forum’s role in promoting cooperation and understanding between regions. She noted that the forum helps facilitate global cooperation and engages countries in the Middle East, MENA area, and other global counterparts, positioning Bahrain as a gateway for connecting Middle Eastern countries with those in the Indo-Pacific region.
Taylor Luck, Jordan-based Middle East Correspondent for the Christian Science Monitor, called the IISS Manama Dialogue “a great meeting place of ideas,” where policymakers and analysts address shared regional challenges. He praised Bahrain’s leadership for its consistent focus on diplomacy and providing a safe space for discussion.
Luck observed that the region is undergoing significant shifts towards cooperation and shared prosperity, noting a realignment from decades of conflict to stability and partnership. He emphasized Bahrain’s prioritization of dialogue over conflict-first approaches in foreign policy.
Mohamed Al Basha, Founder of the Al Basha Report, highlighted the growing significance of the Manama Dialogue amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainty. He stressed the necessity of dialogue as a first step to de-escalate and resolve conflicts, noting the forum’s unique platform for experts from various sectors to connect and exchange ideas.