Crown Prince meets Canadian Foreign Minister, discusses international efforts to defeat terrorism

Manama, Dec6(BNA) His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, today met The Honourable John Baird, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, on the sidelines of the Manama Dialogue. During the meeting, His Royal Highness highlighted the strength of relations between Bahrain and Canada and the shared commitment of both countries to continue expanding cooperation across the bilateral relationship. His Royal Highness went on to stress the importance of taking a holistic approach in the fight against theocratic fascism to achieve a more stable and secure Middle East, aligning the international coalition’s efforts with regional strategies and international political and economic policies. In this regard, His Royal Highness praised Canada’s contribution to the coalition’s efforts to eliminate terrorism from the region. His Royal Highness continued by highlighting that Bahrain, as a global partner for long-term peace and security, remains fully committed to countering all forms of terrorism and violent extremism to ensure lasting stability in the Middle East. Furthermore, His Royal Highness emphasised the importance of blocking all means used by extremist groups as they work to sow chaos across the region and undermine long-term development and prosperity for all people across the Middle East. His Royal Highness then highlighted the importance of maintaining national values in the fight against the rising evil theocracies, specifically the principles of tolerance and coexistence as preached in Islam. In response, Mr Baird expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to meet with His Royal Highness. He went on to praise the opening speech of the Manama Dialogue given by His Royal Highness, specifically for his views on ways to address rising extremist ideologies and violent militancy. Mr Baird concluded by highlighting his country’s desire to boost ties across all levels with the Kingdom, noting the similarities in the visions of both Canada and Bahrain to foster lasting security and stability in this vital region. The meeting was also attended by His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, son of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince.