Bahrain's ambassador to U.S.: Kingdom promotes openness, coexistence and religious tolerance

Boston, Feb. 5 (BNA): Bahrain's Ambassador to the U.S., Shaikh Abdullah bin Rashid Al Khalifa, affirmed that Bahraini democracy is in its best era thanks to the reforms of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. HM the King, through his comprehensive reform approach, has established the rules of coexistence, cultural pluralism and religious tolerance, which constitute the Kingdom’s main strengths and the major reasons behind its distinction at the regional and international levels as the Kingdom welcomes everyone and remains committed to working to promote openness and accept different cultures and religions, he noted. The ambassador made the remarks as he hosted a seminar on the latest developments in the Middle East, organized by the Crown Center for Middle East Studies at Brandeis University. University professors and students attended the seminar. Shaikh Abdullah said Bahrain embarked on this democracy path almost 100 years ago and kept moving forward, bringing benefit to many areas and to all segments of the society. He cited the great achievements accomplished by Bahraini women in various fields, availing of the great support offered by Her Royal Highness ) Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of HM the King and President of the Supreme Council for Women (SCW). The SCW, he added, has spared no effort to support Bahraini women in various political, economic, social, and other fields, greatly reinforcing the status and distinctions that have characterized Bahraini women for decades. The ambassador touched on the fact that Bahrain, as a constitutional monarchy, commits itself, on both legislative and practical levels, to the right to freedom of expression. Its constitution rejects incitement to hatred and violence of any form, he explained. He pointed out that since the establishment of its parliamentary system, Bahrain has sought to become not only a model in political empowerment, but also as a leader in the field of popular participation. The ambassador reviewed the close historical relations between the Kingdom and the U.S. and took pride in their strategic partnership in the defense and security fields within their commitment to maintaining security.