'Bahrain is ‘a voice of reason and moderation’ in the troubled Middle East region'

Manama  : Heaping praise on Bahrain’s diversity and tolerance, United Nations Resident Coordinator Amin El Sharkawi said Bahrain is ‘a voice of reason’ in the troubled Middle East region. 

“Within the short period of my appointment, I have noticed that Bahrain stands out as a ‘voice of reason and moderation’ in a troubled region. I quickly learnt of Bahrain’s reputation in embracing diverse cultures, ideas and beliefs. It is an example of spiritual and intellectual tolerance that has fostered cultural diversity and religious coexistence,” El Sharkawi elaborated. “This has helped the country create a milieu conducive to achieving sustainable development.” 

He was speaking at an event organised to mark the UN Day on Monday evening at Diplomat Radisson Blu hotel. 

According to him, Bahrain has been an active participant in the global development process. 

“The UN Country Team and non-resident agencies have been working actively in the last few months to develop the first ever Strategic Cooperation Framework. The team has outlined how the UN, during the current austerity measures, can be more effective and how it will support the country on its path to achieve sustainable development based on its agenda and national priorities,” he said. 

“Bahrain can overcome obstacles as it’s a resilient nation. Its people are tolerant, generous and open-minded. With an established history in Bahrain, the UN Country Team looks to grow further in the coming years,” El Sharkawi noted.

Commenting on the role of youth, the UN official said: “There are now more than 1.2 billion people between the ages of 15 and 24 worldwide. This is the largest generation of young people the world has ever known. We need to support them to be the drivers of positive change,” he pointed out. 

“In cooperation with the Government of Bahrain, we are developing a programme, which engages young people, to raise awareness on the Sustainable Development Goals and encourage the youth to rethink about their future and country’s future. We are also developing new partnerships for enhanced social inclusion and economic growth,” El Sharkawi added.