His Royal Highness stressed that solidarity among all is necessary to maintain Bahrain’s security and stability, which he underlined can never be comprised. In highlighting this, he called for all political forces in the country to positively engage in further development.
His Royal Highness said that both community political and religious leaders must recognise their important role in confronting and preventing violence, and use all tools at their disposal to not only condemn acts of violence, but also prevent such acts occurring.
In discussing various political approaches, His Royal Highness noted that in any political endeavor mistakes can occur. He thereby noted the importance that groups and individuals apologise and recognise where miscalculations have occurred and rectify mistakes in order to build trust across communities.
His Royal Highness praised those who continue to value the principle of consensus and its importance in a diverse and pluralistic society, while noting the patience and fortitude required to hold to this value in the face of acts of vandalism, violence and terrorism.
On dialogue, His Royal Highness stressed that this process must continue and any attempt to obstruct or stall it must be averted. He maintained that the door is open to all those seeking a political solution and further reform, while expressing concern that there remain community leaders who do not appear to be showing support to this process in the stances they continue to take.
Looking at the rule of law, His Royal Highness said that the legal system in Bahrain protects all from violations in line with national values and Islamic principles. He stressed that all are equal before the law in both rights and duties.
His Royal Highness outlined how His Majesty’s reform programme continues to advance national political development, with continuing reviews and assessment where required. He noted that consensus through dialogue served this process and also helped alleviate communal tensions, through the promotion of mutual understanding.
His Royal Highness reiterated that the National Consensus Dialogue was the platform for Bahrain’s development, serving to enhance and enrich political and democratic advances. He stressed that all sides have a role to play in this progress.
“Political, economic and social development of the country was central to the government’s agenda,” His Royal Highness outlined. He explained how the guidelines for this programme were laid down in the National Action Charter and informed new programmes and policies.
His Royal Highness expressed confidence and optimism that further progress can be made by building on the principles of justice and equal opportunity as well as enhancing efforts to boost education, skills and training to allow Bahrainis to further contribute to economic development.
Audiences at the majlises welcome the visits of His Royal Highness, praising his efforts to contribute to national development and reform. They agreed on the importance of building consensus, rejecting division and those who attempt to sow it through acts of violence and terror.