Written by Zahra Baqer
Manama, June 1 (BNA) The European Union-Bahrain conference “Expanding the Tent: Freedom of Religion and Belief” concluded with a number of discussions 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 between all believers and non-believers from different backgrounds and cultures.
“I am very impressed with this high-level conference organized by Bahrain and the European Union,” said Abdul Samad Al Yazidi, Secretary-General of the German Islamic Council.
“The Kingdom has been presented as a model of contribution to Europe where leaders of different religions and beliefs live together in one community, especially since some parts of European countries are facing Islamophobia and racism that must be addressed, which has been largely implemented in the Kingdom,” he said.
The conference touched on freedom of religion and belief and the etiquette of expression that has no boundaries and binds the individual to him and within the surrounding community, regardless of the various opinions and practices.
The conference highlighted the cohesion and harmony within the Bahraini society. The International Hindu Coordinator of BABS, Mandir Brahmviari Swami, said that the Kingdom is characterized by its plurality of culture, which makes 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.
This event aims to enhance humanitarian cooperation on the principles of respect for freedom of religions and beliefs at the regional and global level and focus on peaceful coexistence, as the goal of this conference will be reflected in spreading peace and rejecting hatred, violence and extremism at the international level. “
The King Hamad Global Center for Peaceful Coexistence has succeeded in exceeding expectations by organizing dialogues and structured sessions to further strengthen the relations between Bahrain and the European Union and exchange different viewpoints at FORB.
Various religious leaders participated in panel discussions on how to implement the Bahraini coexistence model, improve religious freedom, and live as a united human community.
“The French Embassy is pleased to be part of this indispensable conference,” said French Ambassador to Bahrain Jerome Cochard.
“We must tirelessly spread the message of coexistence and have a better understanding of belief systems and other religions.”
The conference resulted in a better understanding of the cooperation between Bahrain and the European Union, within the framework of the European Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries strengthening FORB at the international and global levels.