UK delegation applauds reforms in Bahrain, MOI efforts to reinforce Security

Manama , Nov 2 (BNA): A UK parliamentary delegation headed by Sir Alan Duncan that visited Bahrain to participate in the 11th session of the Manama Dialogue from October 30 to November 1 expressed its admiration of the forum, saying it represented the openness and tolerance of Bahrain and its capability to host such an important international event that emphasized dialogue as a means to reinforce security in the region and the world. The forum focused on security topics in the region and strategies to fight extremism. Sir Duncan, a Conservative Party politician, is a Member of Parliament for Rutland and Melton applauded Bahrain for hosting such an important international event that focuses on dialogue as a means to improve international security to protect peace and stability in the world. "The entire UK delegation was thoroughly impressed by the conference. The Manama Dialogue is a fantastic reflection of Bahrain as it displays openness and tolerance by bringing international delegations together. It allowed us to discuss important global issues as well as seeing Bahrain as it really is. I was here during the troubles in 2011 when the overall mood was tense. It is obviously very different today and this is most encouraging and welcoming. The government of Bahrain has made great strides in its reform initiatives and reconciliation," he said. He added: "All of my fellow British colleagues will make sure that anyone in the UK criticising Bahrain unfairly will find us telling the truth in response. Unfortunately there is a lot of ignorance in the UK with regard to this region and we intend to stand firmly against ill-informed criticism. The greatest misconception about Bahrain is the concept of a 'second class Shia citizen.' This is nothing but a false perception. From what we have seen, Bahrain is a strong example of different sects and ethnicities living in harmony and tolerance. The recent reforms have only strengthened those values." On the sidelines of the Manama Dialogue, Interior Minister, Lt-General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, met the UK delegation and briefed its members on the current security situations and foreign threats facing the Kingdom. After the meeting, Sir Duncan hailed the vision of the Interior Ministry and the progress the Kingdom of Bahrain has achieved since 2011. He commented on the importance of knowing the facts before making an evaluation. He stated Bahrain is an example of peaceful coexistence and the recently adopted reforms greatly contributed in reinforcing a coexistence atmosphere. He also applauded the efforts of the Interior Ministry's reform progress since 2011 and the transparency of the Interior Minister's security briefing. "The delegation enjoyed meeting the Interior Minister of Bahrain who clearly articulated the serious security threats facing Bahrain and the Gulf region," he said. The reform efforts of the Government of Bahrain since 2011, especially their commitment to join efforts with the UK for the stability of the country and the region are appreciated," he said, adding that "the decision to open HMS Juffair, the new UK naval base in Manama, is a strong illustration of the United Kingdom’s commitment to Bahrain and the Gulf and nothing illustrates better the ties between our two countries."