Bahrain, Russian religious cooperation discussed

Manama, Mar. 23 (BNA): Supreme Islamic Affairs Council (SIAC) Vice Chairman Shaikh Abdulrahman bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Khalifa today received the Grand Mufti of Russia, Russian Muftis Shura Council Chairman Shaikh Rawi Ainuddin. The meeting was attended by the delegation accompanying The Grand Mufti and Russian Ambassador Vagif Garaev. The two sides held a session of talks and discussed cooperation between the Supreme Islamic Affairs Council (SIAC) and the Russian Muftis Shura Council. Shaikh Abdulrahman bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Khalifa welcomed the delegation, stressing Bahrain’s keenness on bolstering bilateral relations with Russia, particularly in the religious field. He stressed the importance of disseminating the values of tolerance and co-existence, adding that Bahrain embraces all religions and cultures. He underscored the keenness of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa on promoting dialogue, interfaith and intercultural coexistence, stressing in this regard the Manama Dialogue for Civilizations and Cultures, which is held under the royal patronage. The Grand Mufti of Russia, Russian Muftis Shura Council Chairman Shaikh Rawi Ainuddin hailed Bahrain’s strides, thanking the Supreme Islamic Affairs Council (SIAC) for the invitation. SIAC Chairman Shaikh Abdulla bin Khalid Al-Khalifa hosted a lunch banquet in honour of Grand Mufti of Russia, Russian Muftis Shura Council Chairman Shaikh Rawi Ainuddin. Present were Deputy Premier Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al-Khalifa, Supreme Islamic Affairs Council (SIAC) Vice Chairman Shaikh Abdulrahman bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Khalifa and other senior officials.