Bahrain emphasizes dialogue and peaceful approaches to ending conflicts

In his address to the General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly, Al-Zayani mentioned that Bahrain has succeeded in sharing its pioneering experience with the world in terms of tolerance, peaceful coexistence, respect for human rights, and the promotion of values of solidarity, humanitarian work, and international development.

He added that Bahrain has established a set of priorities, recognizing that international cooperation based on mutual trust, sincere intentions, and shared understanding is the optimal path to overcome common challenges.

He emphasized that the top priority is dialogue and peaceful approaches in ending wars and settling disputes, focusing on advancing the Middle East's peace process and supporting the Palestinian people's rights to establish their independent state.

He expressed Bahrain's support for the continuation of the UN humanitarian ceasefire in Yemen.

Additionally, he pointed out that Bahrain supports sustainable, peaceful solutions to crises in Syria, Lebanon, Sudan, Libya, and Afghanistan "while preserving the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of these countries."

"Positive developments"

The Bahraini Foreign Minister also highlighted his country's commitment to establishing international relations based on good neighbourliness, respect for international law, the sovereignty and stability of states, and non-interference in their internal affairs. He expressed appreciation for "positive developments, such as Syria's return to the Arab League and the resumption of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran."

Among Bahrain's priorities in addressing various challenges, Al-Zayani touched on the promotion of tolerance, a culture of peace, and interreligious and intercultural dialogue.

He called on the international community to respond to Bahrain's call to adopt an international agreement to criminalize religious, sectarian, and racial hatred speech.

Al-Zayani also stressed the importance of cooperation and coordination in combating terrorism and eradicating its sources, intensifying efforts to prevent the spread of weapons of mass destruction, collaborating to protect the security of commercial navigation and energy supplies in the Gulf region and countering cybercrimes. 

He welcomed his country's involvement in the economic corridor project connecting India to Europe through the Middle East.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bahrain also offered condolences to Morocco and Libya for the victims of the earthquake in Morocco and the floods in the Libyan city of Derna.

The Role of Women

Al-Zayani stated that Bahrain has provided:

• A model of political development.
• The rule of law.
• Institutions with the framework of the separation of powers and cooperation based on the constitution.

He praised the Bahraini Parliament's exercise of legislative and oversight powers and the establishment of justice within an impartial and independent judiciary supported by independent human rights institutions.

He pointed out that Bahrain takes pride in its advanced legislative system that enhances respect for human rights and political and civil liberties.

He also mentioned Bahrain's achievements in combating COVID-19, stating that the country has set a humanitarian and civilized example in dealing with the pandemic, continuing to implement an economic recovery plan.

Al-Zayani also highlighted Bahrain's progress in the Human Development Index, ranking second in the Arab world and 35th globally and being ranked first in the Arab world and 21st globally in the World Happiness Report for 2022.

He discussed Bahrain's excellence in the digital transformation field, with recognition as one of the leading countries in e-government and being ranked first globally in internet penetration by the World Bank. Additionally, Bahrain has approved a national strategy to support the transition to the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the digital economy.

He spoke about women's participation, stating that Bahrain "takes pride in the progress and contributions of women as active partners in the comprehensive development achievements."