HM the King: Bahrain tolerance, co-existence role model

Manama, Sep. 21 (BNA): His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has asserted that Bahrain has been a successful role model for tolerance, co-existence and love among all religions and sects for ages. This came as HM the King received at the Al-Sakhir Palace today, Bishop Camillo Ballin, the Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia, currently on a visit to the kingdom. HM King Hamad welcomed Bishop Camillo Ballin, and commended the tremendous efforts he is exerting in the humanitarian fields, as his endeavours to promote the values of good, love and tolerance. HM the King affirmed that Bahrain is proud to be a land that embraces all religions and sects within a tightly-knit one family that is open to the world, noting that throughout history, Bahrainis have been tolerant and loving, and they welcome the followers of other religions, out of their civilised features and keenness to communicate with everyone. HM the King pointed out that the Kingdom always seeks to consolidate the values of tolerance and co-existence among all religions, strengthen the approach of moderation and tolerance, reject fanaticism and extremism, and promote the values of the Islamic Religion, including love, peace and co-existence among human beings. HM King Hamad reviewed with Bishop Camillo Ballin a number of issues that contribute to spreading the culture of dialogue and tolerance among the followers of divine religions. He also highlighted the kingdom's commitment to the moderation approach, and renunciation of extremism and Ghulu (exaggeration). In this regard, HM the King shed light on the kingdom's pioneering initiatives, including its hosting of international conferences and seminars that foster rapprochement, dialogue and co-existence among religions, and ensure religious freedoms. Bishop Camillo Ballin expressed deepest thanks and appreciation to HM the King for the appreciation and care enjoyed by all religions in Bahrain, stressing that thanks to HM King Hamad's leadership, the kingdom embraces all without discrimination within a supportive and loving society. The Kingdom of Bahrain is among the leading country in the region regarding religious tolerance, stressing that its history is laden with communication and acceptance of others.