Bahrain has achieved significant democratic transformations: MoFA undersecretary

Manama, Oct. 28 (BNA): On the sidelines of the 14th edition of Manama Dialogue, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for International Affairs, Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, met Ambassador and Regional Director for the Near and Middle East and North Africa German, Foreign Office of the Federal Republic of Germany, Ambassador Christian Buck. They discussed the distinguished bilateral relations between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Federal Republic of Germany and ways of developing them at all levels as well as they exchanged views on current regional and international issues of common concern. Dr. Shaikh Abdullah expressed deep pride in the historic relations and close partnership between the two friendly countries that are traced back to decades of trust, respect and coordination, as well as mutual desire to promote mutual benefits and establish international peace and security. "The prestigious forums and conferences hosted by the Kingdom of Bahrain always offer promising opportunities for exchanging ideas and views and form unique platforms for solid dialogues and new visions to address the issues of the region and the world in order to confront the challenges and consolidate security and stability," he said. Dr. Shaikh Abdullah said that there are many opportunities for developing bilateral cooperation, especially in investment, smart productive sectors, energy projects, innovation, knowledge transfer, entrepreneurship, industries, construction, tourism and exhibitions. He explained that the Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 and the advanced government programs have made of the Kingdom the focus of attention for international companies and have been behind the attraction of significant foreign investments, considering that it can also build on the outputs of the Arab-German Economic Forum held in Berlin last June. He pointed out that the parliamentary and municipal elections to be held next month in an atmosphere of freedom, transparency and integrity is a clear indication of the kingdom consolidating its democratic practices and promoting popular participation. These attainments reflect the outstanding successes of the Kingdom of Bahrain, competently led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, to become one of the first countries in the world to achieve democratic reforms and unprecedented qualitative gains at all levels in a short period. Dr. Shaikh Abdullah outlined the efforts of the Kingdom of Bahrain in combating the threat of terrorism, pointing out that it is moving on two parallel tracks, the first of which is to confront foreign-backed terrorist groups that are trying to obstruct the reform process and undermine the foundations of coexistence and openness. The second, he added, is to engage effectively with partners in strategic alliances to combat terrorism abroad, notably the Islamic Military Coalition to Combat Terrorism, led by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In this context, he voiced surprise over the tendency to provide assistance to the Iranian regime, the number one sponsor of terrorism despite that its conduct remained unchanged after the signing of the nuclear agreement and thought it grew more threatening to regional peace and meddling in the affairs of the countries of the region. The Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that Bahrain's international leadership in freedoms and tolerance did not come from a vacuum, but rather from the blessed royal vision and initiatives, which have been materialized on the ground. He quoted outgoing German Ambassador to Bahrain Alfred Simms-Protz as saying that "Bahrain must receive the recognition it deserves, because it is one of the most tolerant and open countries in the region." Dr. Shaikh Abdullah said that the initiatives and achievements of Bahrain Towards freedom of worship, peaceful coexistence, women's partnership, youth empowerment, protection of expatriate workers and others are pouring in this direction. For his part, Ambassador Christian Buck expressed his appreciation of the Kingdom of Bahrain's position on the developments in the region, expressing his country's pride in the friendly relations and cooperation with the Kingdom, looking forward to enhancing cooperation in various fields.