'Bahrain role model for religious tolerance, peaceful co-existence'

Manama, Apr. 22 (BNA): Labour andc Social Development Minister, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met US Rev. Johnnie Moore, who was accompanied by the Shura Council member, Sameer Al-Baharna, and the Secretary General of Bahrain Federation of Expatriate Associations Betsy Abdulrahman. They discussed the depth of the Bahrain-US relations, and the kingdom’s keenness on maintaining the outstanding level of those ties, and developing them towards more cooperation and coordination in various fields. They also emphasised the values of co-existence and tolerance prevailing that have distinguished the Bahraini society throughout history thanks to the positive relations among all sects and religions in the kingdom. They underlined the kingdom’s pride in hosting the followers of all religions and sects who co-exist as an all-inclusive one family that is cohesive and open to the world thanks to the awareness and civilisation of its people and its love for all, within the framework of a tolerance and co-existence among all religions and sects, the values that His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, through his sound directives, is always keen on reaffirming and consolidating. The Kingdom of Bahrain has always been known as the land of tolerance and co-existence among the followers of all religions, the minister said, adding that expatriate communities from many countries live in Bahrain without discrimination and practise their religious rituals freely. Tackling the services provided by the Labour and Social Development Ministry, Humaidan said that all social segments, including the expatriate communities, enjoy the Ministry’s services, in line with the provisions of the Constitution and the laws in force hers, stressing that expatriates’ religious, labour and social rights, as well as their religious freedoms are guaranteed in Bahrain. Rev. Johnnie Moore appreciated the kingdom’s advanced regulations, legislation and policies that prove the openness of the Bahraini society, lauding the authenticity and love distinguishing Bahrainis. He affirmed that Bahrain is a pioneering role model for religious tolerance and peace, noting that those values are based on a rich history full of communication and acceptance of others.