Foreign Affairs Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Khalifa highlighted the importance of the United Nations and the effective role it is playing in the modern world.
Shaikh Khalid also noted that the celebration of the UN Day this year coincides with the 40th anniversary of the kingdom’s accession to the UN and the participation of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa at the 66th session of the UN General Assembly, reflecting Bahrain’s full respect for the international organisation and commitment to its principles and goals. In a statement delivered on his behalf today during a press conference held at the UN Office, marking the UN Day, by the Foreign Ministry’s Under-secretary for International Affairs Ambassador Ibrahim Al Shukr, Shaikh Khalid said that the kingdom is looking forward to enhancing its fruitful partnership with the UN. The Foreign Minister also lauded His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa’s statement on UN Day in which he reiterated Bahrain’s keen interest to strengthen cooperation ties with the UN and its specialized agencies through the implementation of the UN-Bahrain programme 2012-2016, reflecting the solid Bahrain-UN ties launched in 1971. The Minister also expressed confidence that the UN will continue playing its pivotal role in order to promote peace, stability and just development across the world. On his part, the UN Resident Coordinator to Bahrain Mr. Peter Grumman delivered a statement in which he expressed the UN’s full commitment to assist the Kingdom and its people in facing all challenges.
Peter Grumman also praised HM the King’s keynote address to the 66th session of the UN General Assembly in which he reiterated the kingdom’s adherence to the principles and goals of the United Nations and appreciation of its role in implementing international peace and security, and highlighted Bahrain’s landmark strides regarding the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
He affirmed that Bahrain has succeeded in achieving many MDGs, especially in the areas of health and education, pointing out that challenges remain on the agenda, in terms of the sustainability of women’s development and the environment.
The ceremony was also attended by a group of Modern Knowledge School students who introduced gorgeous paints, reflecting their aspirations for world-wide peace, love and harmony.