EU-Bahrain conference concludes on high, optimistic note

By Zahraa Baqer Manama, June 1 (BNA): The EU-Bahrain Conference “Broadening the Tent: Freedom of Religion and Belief” (FORB) concluded with a number of debates and sessions that discussed ways to develop peaceful coexistence and overcome challenges. The closing session also focused on unity when it comes to applying FORB amongst all believers and non-believers of different backgrounds and cultures. “I’m very impressed with this high-level conference organized by Bahrain-EU,” German Muslim Council Secretary General Abdassamad El Yazidi said. “It has showcased the Kingdom as a model to be input into Europe where different faiths and faith leaders live together in one community, especially since some parts of European countries are facing Islamophobia and racism that need to be addressed, which has been implemented greatly in the Kingdom,”. The conference touched upon freedom of religion, belief, and manners of expression that are limitless and link the individual to himself and within his surrounding community, regardless of the diverse views and practices. “The conference highlighted the cohesion and harmony within the Bahraini society. The Kingdom is characterized by its multiculturalism, making it a home for all people of different religions, beliefs, and ethnicities, and this reflects the visions of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa,” BAPS Hindu International Coordinator Mandir Brahmavihari Swami said. “This event aims to promote humanitarian cooperation on the principles of respect for freedom of religions and beliefs at a regional and global level and focus on peaceful coexistence, as an aim of this conference will reflect in spreading peace and rejecting hatred and violence and extremism on an international level.” King Hamad Global Center for Peaceful Coexistence managed to exceed expectations through organizing structured dialogues and sessions to further enhance Bahrain-EU relations and share different viewpoints on FORB. Different faith leaders participated in discussion panels on how to apply Bahrain’s coexistence model, improve religious freedom and live as a united and humane community. “The French Embassy is delighted to be a part of this indispensable conference,” French Ambassador to Bahrain Jérôme Cauchard said. “We have to tirelessly spread the message of coexistence and have a better understanding of other belief systems and religions.” The conference has resulted in a better understanding of the Bahrain-EU cooperation, in the framework of the EU-GCC promoting FORB on an international and global level.