Bahrain mission in Geneva co-organises high level peace event

Geneva, May 30 (BNA): The Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the United Nations Office in Geneva co-organised a high level event focused on promoting a culture of peace, in cooperation with the University for Peace (UPEACE), the King Hamad Global Centre for Coexistence and Tolerance, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and the GIOYA Institute of Higher Education in Malta.

Ambassador Abdulla Abdullatif Abdulla, the Permanent Representative of Bahrain to the United Nations Office in Geneva, emphasised Bahrain’s firm commitment to advancing the values of peace and respect for cultural and religious diversity. He said that this commitment reflects the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and is implemented through government policies led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

He also highlighted the adoption by the United Nations General Assembly, on 4 March 2025, of a resolution establishing 28 January as the International Day of Peaceful Coexistence. The initiative was led by King Hamad Global Centre for Coexistence and Tolerance.

The ambassador said that Bahrain views peace not only as the absence of conflict, but as the presence of justice, development, and dialogue. He underlined tangible programmes supporting these goals, such as the joint postgraduate diploma in coexistence launched with UPEACE and GIOYA, and the trade diplomacy programme, aimed at addressing economic disparities and fostering inclusive development.

The event was attended by permanent representatives in Geneva and senior figures from international and academic institutions. Discussions focused on best practices in promoting coexistence and the role of education and diplomacy in building more just and peaceful societies.

Abdulla Isa Al Mannai, Executive Director of the King Hamad Global Centre, and Ambassador Dr. David Fernández Puyana, Permanent Observer of UPEACE, delivered remarks emphasising the importance of strengthening efforts to promote education for coexistence and tolerance.

The event highlighted Bahrain’s leading role in advancing a culture of peace through multilateral cooperation and its support for international efforts to build a future based on dignity, mutual respect, and coexistence.