Manama: Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the King Hamad Global Centre for Coexistence and Tolerance, has commended the Kingdom of Bahrain as a model of civilization in promoting religious freedoms and social cohesion. He emphasized Bahrain's dedication to religious and sectarian freedoms and its efforts to foster a culture of human coexistence and national unity under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed noted that the recent commemoration of Ashoora exemplified Bahrain's commitment to its foundational human values. The Kingdom has made strides in creating a society grounded in tolerance, respect for religious and cultural diversity, and compassion. This has been achieved through the leadership and directives of His Majesty the King and the efforts of the government, led by HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The government has ensured the provision of necessary guarantees, facilities, and services to facilitate the practice of religious rituals comfortably and securely.
Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed expressed pride in the effective organization of the Ashoora season's events, attributing the success to strong coordination among government entities, particularly the Ministry of Interior and the governorates. This coordination was conducted under the guidance of General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior, and involved collaboration with the Ja'fari Endowments Council, scholars, sheikhs, heads of matams, and volunteer groups. These collective efforts contributed to showcasing a tolerant and open society that embraces all its members within a framework of legal adherence, national responsibility, and community partnership.
He further emphasized the importance of the Bahraini society's awareness and its dedication to respecting the spirituality and ethical meanings of religious occasions. He regards these occasions as integral to the national identity, which is based on Islamic values, civilizational heritage, and national principles that advocate for moderation, reject extremism, and promote good citizenship. This identity also emphasizes respect for human rights, religious and civil freedoms, and the strengthening of social harmony within a law-governed state.