Crown Prince: Bahrain committed to principles of coexistence, religious freedom

Manama, Oct 28 (BNA) His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, today met Archbishop Atallah Hanna of Sebastia from the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem, at Riffa Palace. During the meeting, His Royal Highness welcomed the Archbishop to Bahrain and emphasised that the Kingdom is committed to the principles of tolerance, coexistence, mutual respect and religious freedom. His Royal Highness emphasised that Bahrain, as home to many religious communities, maintains its long-standing support to fostering religious and cultural tolerance. His Royal Highness stressed that the principles of coexistence and mutual respect are fundamental components of any society, adding that the Kingdom’s own diverse and tolerant community has overcome many obstacles and continues to flourish under His Majesty the King’s programme of reform and development. His Royal Highness went on to note that Bahrain remains deeply concerned about the on-going Palestinian-Israeli conflict, and in particular, the recent escalation of violence which undermines efforts to achieving lasting peace. His Royal Highness thanked the Archbishop for his visits to Bahrain and for his continuous participation in dialogue which seeks to promote religious and cultural coexistence. The Archbishop expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to meet His Royal Highness, and expressed his appreciation for the Kingdom’s continued support for Palestine and its people. The Archbishop also highlighted Bahrain’s role in promoting religious tolerance and coexistence in the region.