Moscow: Bahrain’s parliamentary division participated in the APA Standing Committee on Social and Cultural Affairs meeting held in Russia. Ahmed Sabah Al Saloom, Vice-President of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly (APA) and Chairman of the Financial and Economic Affairs Committee at the Council of Representatives, affirmed that the Kingdom, as it prepares to assume the presidency of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly in 2026, regards this responsibility as a strategic commitment to advancing joint parliamentary work across Asia. He said that this approach is inspired by the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and supported by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to further strengthen Bahrain’s active presence regionally and internationally.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Al Saloom noted that the meeting reflects the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect among Asian parliaments and reaffirms their shared commitment to promoting dialogue and the exchange of experiences in social and cultural domains. He added that this gathering takes place at a pivotal moment for Asia and the world, amid complex political, economic, social, and cultural challenges, the rise of regional and global crises, and declining confidence in the current international order. He emphasised that such circumstances place a historical responsibility on Asian parliaments to strengthen collective parliamentary action and prioritise cooperation over division and conflict.
Al Saloom emphasised that Bahrain adopts a comprehensive vision for developing Asian parliamentary work, founded on principles of partnership, responsible openness, and constructive engagement with the challenges facing Asian nations and peoples. He highlighted Bahrain’s focus on enhancing dialogue and understanding among APA members and broadening cooperation on social and cultural issues that directly affect the continent’s security and stability.
He further noted that Asia, with its vast demographic and cultural diversity and abundant human and natural resources, is called upon to play an active role in shaping the emerging global order. He underlined the duty of parliamentarians to serve as a voice for safeguarding national sovereignty and to develop practical and sustainable solutions to the continent’s pressing issues.
Al Saloom expressed his appreciation to the Russian Parliament and the organising committee for their hospitality and excellent arrangements, commended the contributions of member parliaments, and commended the APA Secretariat for its role in supporting the Assembly’s mission and advancing dialogue and coordination among Asian parliaments.