HM the king hails Bahrain-Russian relations

Manama, Oct.29 (BNA): His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa received, at Al-Sakhir Palace, Professor Vitaliy Naumkin, President of the Institute of Oriental Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, marking his visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain. Prof. Naumkin paid tribute to HM the King, hailing his pivotal role, since his accession to the throne in 1999, in advocating dialogue between civilisations and interfaith peaceful co-existence. He hailed the establishment of King Hamad Global Center for Peaceful Co-existence and the inauguration of the King Hamad’s Chair for Interfaith Dialogue, Peaceful Co-existence at Sapienza University in Italy. In a speech delivered before HM the King, he commended both important steps which, he said, aim to spread the culture of tolerance, promote the principle of coexistence and dialogue, which is a fundamental pillar for societies to combat all kinds of violence, discrimination and hatred, advocate the message of peace, which should be the basis of international relations and guarantee political, economic and social freedoms as well as a cornerstone to reduce wars and conflicts worldwide. Prof. Naumkin lauded HM the King’s wise policy to strengthen political, economic and social relations between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Russian Federation, on the basis of mutual respect and common interests. The board of trustees of the Institute of Oriental Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences conferred on HM the King the Medal of Ignatius Kratshovsky, the highest academic order, in recognition of his dedicated efforts and pivotal role in advocating the values of peace and moderation and strengthening relations of friendship and cooperation between countries and peoples in the world. HM the King welcomed Prof. Naumkin and expressed thanks for the Medal of Ignatius Kratshovsky, commending the role of the Institute of Oriental Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, one of the most important think tanks in the world, hailing its political, scientific and cultural achievements since its establishments. He stressed the importance of dialogue civilisations, cultures and religions and consolidating communication and peace between peoples all over the world. He lauded deep relations binding the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Russian Federation, hailing advanced cooperation, particularly cultural exchanges and scientific research. HM the King commended the pivotal role played by Russian President Vladimir Putin as well as dedicated efforts to bolster bilateral historic relations, wishing the Russian leadership and people further progress and prosperity.