Manama: Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs, applauded Bahrain's active participation in promoting tolerance and combating violent extremism and terrorism. He emphasized these principles as integral to the humanitarian and diplomatic strategies of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, aimed at fostering peace, security, human rights, and sustainable development.
According to Bahrain News Agency, on the occasion of the "International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism", Dr. Al Zayani underscored Bahrain's unique position under the vision of His Majesty and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. This is achieved through a comprehensive system of measures to counter hate and extremism and enhance international cooperation against terrorism, which is condemned as a crime against humanity. Bahrain's stance aligns with international charters that reject the association of terrorism with any religion, nationality, civilization, or ethnic group.
The Foreign Minister reiterated the Kingdom's dedication to justice, citizenship, responsible media freedoms, and raising youth awareness. He highlighted efforts to shield society from extremist propaganda and promote peace and human fraternity at various levels. These initiatives are part of the "Bahrainouna" National Plan and the National Human Rights Plan, complemented by educational programs from the King Hamad Global Centre for Coexistence and Tolerance.
Dr. Al Zayani expressed gratitude for the Ministerial Committee for Combating Extremism's efforts, chaired by General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior. He lauded the committee's role in legislative proposals, policy support, and cooperation with global institutions to prevent extremism and combat terrorism in all its manifestations, including financial and ideological aspects.
He further stated Bahrain's commitment to strengthening international partnerships against extremism and terrorism through its forthcoming non-permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council for 2026-2027 and its active involvement in regional and global organizations. The Kingdom aims to address cross-border organized crime, enhance cybersecurity, and promote dialogue and peaceful dispute resolution, thereby contributing to international peace and security.
The Foreign Minister called on the international community to adopt a convention criminalizing hate speech and preventing the misuse of media platforms to incite intolerance and extremism. He urged collective action to embed peace culture in education and activities, guided by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and to promote tolerance across religions.
He noted Bahrain's ongoing support for global efforts to promote peace and combat extremism through international conferences and regional security summits like the Manama Dialogue. The Kingdom is committed to activating relevant agreements, supporting the global counter-terrorism strategy, and the UN Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism 2016, employing a comprehensive approach that combines security and preventive measures.
Dr. Al Zayani concluded that under the leadership of His Majesty the King and the directives of HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Bahrain is committed to combating extremism and terrorism while upholding human rights and the rule of law. The Kingdom aims to prevent extremism from escalating into terrorism and maintains a balanced foreign policy to promote dialogue, understanding, and conflict prevention. Bahrain supports international solidarity in spreading tolerance and coexistence to achieve global security, peace, and sustainable prosperity.