Bahrain Crown Prince’s Visit to Vatican Highlights Nation’s Commitment to Dialogue and Tolerance

MP Dr. Maryam Al-Da’an described the official visit of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to the Vatican and his meeting with Pope Francis as a significant milestone reflecting Bahrain’s commitment to fostering cultural understanding and promoting interfaith dialogue.

Dr. Al-Da’an said the visit continues Bahrain’s long-standing approach of placing openness, tolerance, and moderation at the core of its national and diplomatic efforts, reinforcing the kingdom’s position as a beacon of coexistence and peace in the region and beyond.

She highlighted Bahrain as a true hub of religious and cultural diversity, particularly in the capital, Manama, which hosts places of worship for various faiths, including mosques, churches, and temples, all underpinned by mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. The Bahraini constitution guarantees freedom of belief and the right to practice religious rituals, ensuring that all individuals can worship freely and safely, reflecting the kingdom’s values of pluralism and openness.

Dr. Al-Da’an noted that under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Bahrain has launched numerous global initiatives to strengthen dialogue and human connection, such as the “Bahrain Declaration on Religious Tolerance” and the “King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Coexistence.” Academic initiatives like the “King Hamad Chair for Dialogue between Religions and Peaceful Coexistence” at La Sapienza University in Italy have further enhanced Bahrain’s international standing as a platform for intercultural dialogue.

She emphasized that the Crown Prince’s meeting with the Pope reflects Bahrain’s dedication to supporting humanitarian and diplomatic initiatives that promote peace, brotherhood, and mutual respect among nations, underscoring the kingdom’s leadership role in advancing global peace and shared human values.