Foreign Minister participates in ACD Summit

Doha, Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs, participated in the third Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) Summit held in Qatar and chaired by His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of Qatar. The minister delivered a speech reaffirming the belief of Bahrain, as per the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, that peace is the strategic choice for resolving conflicts and disputes through dialogue and political settlements. He emphasised the importance of this approach, particularly regarding the Palestinian issue, which has persisted for over seven decades and denied the Palestinian people their legitimate human rights. Dr. Al Zayani stressed that the current tragic situation in the Gaza Strip underscores the urgent need for a just, comprehensive, and sustainable peace in the Middle East. He noted that the Bahrain Summit held in May had called for an international peace conference to establish an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. The summit also demanded an immediate end to the war on the Gaza Strip, the protection of civilians, the release of hostages and detainees, and the facilitation of humanitarian aid to the deprived population of the strip. He further noted that the continuation of the war on the Gaza Strip has led to its extension into Lebanon and warned against the conflict spreading to neighbouring countries, which threatens regional security and stability and poses risks to international peace and security. The minister highlighted the critical challenges faced globally today political, economic, social, and environmental that hinder comprehensive development. He called for concerted efforts to strengthen cooperation among Asian nations, foster partnerships, and build a brighter future for all, ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity for their people. Dr. Al Zayani pointed to the remarkable developmental achievements and economic growth in Asia, emphasising that strategic partnerships are essential to harness the vast potential of the region's countries. He urged collaboration in key areas such as renewable energy, food and energy security, technology, innovation, climate change, sustainable development, education, tourism, and culture, all grounded in shared values and mutual interests. He underscored the importance of prioritising shared goals through constructive dialogue, mutual trust, and active cooperation, aiming to promote peace, stability, and comprehensive development that benefits all nations and their people. Dr. Al Zayani also praised the summit's theme of sports diplomacy, considering it a vital pillar in enhancing relations between nations. He highlighted its role in promoting cultural exchange, youth and women empowerment, and fostering common humanitarian values. He affirmed Bahrain's commitment to enhancing the role of sports in development and strengthening partnerships among ACD member states, in line with the ACD 2030 vision. He noted that sports have proven to be a dynamic force in societies, contr ibuting to development and fostering closer understanding and cooperation between countries. Dr. Al Zayani also commended the significant achievements of Asian countries in sports internationally, as well as their infrastructural development and excellence in various international competitions. Bahrain's delegation included Mohamed bin Ali Al Ghatam, Bahrain's Ambassador to Qatar, Ambassador Talal Abdulsalam Al Ansari, Director-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Fatima Abdullah Al Dhaen, Director-General of International Cooperation, and Ambassador Saeed Abdulkhaleq Saeed, Head of Coordination and Follow-Up Sector. Source: Bahrain News Agency