FM : Bahrain firmly committed to reforms

Foreign Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Khalifa today reaffirmed Bahrain's firm commitment to reforms. He pointed out the process led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa since the turn of the new century to promote pluralism and equality, stressing the need to respect internal affairs. "Bahrain has succeeded in solving its internal affairs, establishing itself as a beacon of reforms in the region over the last decades", he said. The minister was speaking as he addressed the second day of the 8th Manama Dialogue Forum, held under the theme: "Regional Security Priorities". He stressed Bahrain's ability to settle its own problems, rejecting any foreign interference which may cause polarization and push citizens to adopt extremist stances. He also reaffirmed Bahrain's commitment to the reform process – in words and deeds – pointing out that Bahrain has ushered in a new phase in the reform process. He pointed out mounting challenges which will impact the region and affect the whole world, particularly the Mideast developments and upheavals over the past two years. "The GCC members states have realized, amid these developments, that they have no other options, but to succeed, step up cooperation and embark on a future-oriented strategy towards complementarity", he said. The minister voiced deep concerns over the tragic developments in Syrian, stressing the string of initiatives offered to the Syrian Government to reform or leave. He warned against the danger of the Iranian nuclear programme which may fuel conflicts and endanger regional security. "The Iranian path would lead to armed conflict in the region, fuel sectarian strife, terror and violence", he said. AHN