Bahrain concludes participation in Interfaith Dialogue Conference in Rome

Rome, June 22 (BNA): Bahrain's parliamentary division, led by Ahmed bin Salman Al-Musallam, Speaker of the Council of Representatives, concluded its participation in the Second Parliamentary Conference on Interfaith Dialogue in Italy.

Bahrain's delegation delivered several statements, presentations, and working papers, underscoring the Kingdom’s firm principles in promoting tolerance, coexistence, religious diversity, respect for others, and rejection of hatred and extremism. These efforts align with the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the values outlined in the Kingdom of Bahrain Declaration on Tolerance and Coexistence.

The delegation also participated in discussions on the role of parliaments in combating hate speech, supporting religious freedoms, and developing a culture of dialogue and mutual understanding among religions and cultures. Other key topics included enhancing the rights of religious minorities, sharing best practices on investing in education as a means to achieve peace, reinforcing solidarity with vulnerable groups, and advancing the role of women in public life through interfaith dialogue.

The conference concluded with the issuance of the “Rome Declaration,” which included several key recommendations. These highlighted the need to encourage parliaments to strengthen provisions related to freedom of thought, conscience, religion, and belief; counter hate speech and divisive rhetoric; address the misuse of religion as a weapon; and confront digital threats to democracy and human dignity. The declaration also emphasised the importance of ethical leadership, called for the establishment or strengthening of parliamentary bodies and mechanisms, and supported initiatives in peace education, religious literacy, and the promotion of parliamentary diplomacy.