Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed commends launch of King Hamad Award for Peaceful Coexistence

Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Chairman of the board of trustees of the King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Coexistence, lauded the establishment of the King Hamad Award for Peaceful Coexistence as a groundbreaking global initiative by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. He highlighted this award as a reflection of HM the King's visionary approach to fostering human values that promote a safe, peaceful, and sustainable world. Speaking at a press conference at the National Charter Monument, Dr. Shaikh Abdulla emphasised the humanitarian dimensions of the award, which was established by Royal Order (32) of 2024. He noted that the award draws from Bahrain's longstanding tradition of openness and cultural diversity, aiming to foster peaceful coexistence, intercultural dialogue, and the rejection of extremism and hatred. These objectives align with Bahrain's Constitution, the principles of the National Action Charter, and the "Declaration of the Kingdom of Bahrain" on freedom of thought and be lief. Dr. Shaikh Abdulla underscored that this international award is an extension of HM the King's humanitarian initiatives, which are supported by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. These initiatives have solidified Bahrain's position as a leader in promoting dialogue and peaceful coexistence, embodying the belief that coexistence and harmony are intrinsic to Bahrain's identity and serve as a global example of moderation and fraternity, he added. Dr. Shaikh Abdulla also highlighted key initiatives such as the establishment of the King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Coexistence, the King Hamad Chair for Interfaith Dialogue and Peaceful Coexistence at Sapienza University in Italy, the Bahrain Dialogue Forum "East and West for Human Coexistence", and HM the King's call for an international agreement to criminalise hate speech based on religion, sect, or race. These initiatives, he noted, carry a universal message of goodwill, peace, and hope for hum anity. The chairman expressed pride in HM the King's acceptance of the honorary presidency of the award, which coincides with the Silver Jubilee of HM's accession and World Humanitarian Day. This milestone reflects HM the King's comprehensive development process. Dr. Shaikh Abdulla also highlighted the trust placed in the Board of Trustees of the King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Coexistence, which will oversee the award and establish its policies. The award will recognise individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to dialogue among civilisations, coexistence, and tolerance. The winner will receive a financial reward, a certificate of appreciation, and a medal in a ceremony under the patronage of HM the King. The award's jury, chaired by the chairman of the board or his representative, will include globally recognised experts and will operate with independence, impartiality, and integrity. The selection process will be based on objective criteria, including excellence, creat ivity, innovation, and global impact in promoting peaceful coexistence and human solidarity. In closing, Dr. Shaikh Abdulla thanked the legislative authority, media outlets, government agencies, and particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and diplomatic missions, for promoting a culture of peace and tolerance. He affirmed the center's commitment to achieving the vision of HM the King and the directives of the government, led by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, ensuring Bahrain continues to be a beacon of religious coexistence and a hub for cultural exchange, contributing to global peace and sustainable development. Source: Bahrain News Agency