Bahrain has reiterated its call to end the Russia-Ukraine war and reinstate peace and stability across Europe and the world through peaceful and diplomatic means.
Foreign Minister Dr Abdullatif Al Zayani highlighted His Majesty King Hamad’s stance to seek a political settlement to the conflict through wide-ranging talks and negotiations.
This came as he met Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy during an official visit to Kiev yesterday.
Dr Al Zayani conveyed greetings and best wishes from His Majesty and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and expressed Bahrain’s wishes to Ukraine and its people of long-lasting peace, stability and development.
His Majesty had urged world leaders to join hands and hold a meeting without pre-conditions to end the Ukraine-Russia conflict during the closing address at an interfaith forum in Bahrain last year, which was attended by Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of Al Azhar.
Mr Zelenskiy welcomed and praised the King’s stance, commending Bahrain’s humanitarian support to the Ukrainian people who have been devastated by the conflict that broke out in March last year. He also emphasised Ukraine’s keenness to broaden co-operation between both countries in various areas.
Earlier, Dr Al Zayani addressed a Press conference with his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba during which the leaders urged restraint and stressed the need to avoid escalation to save lives and properties.
Dr Al Zayani called for more international efforts to boost humanitarian operations to support those displaced in the war, protect civilians, and extend the agreement on grain export from Russia and Ukraine, which is vital for global food security.
The ministers held talks during which they discussed international calls to stop the war, noting the efforts led by Pope Francis. They also reviewed initiatives taken by the Ukrainian President and the recent peace proposals announced by China.
“We believe these efforts deserve consideration so that a framework can be drawn up for negotiation to reach a solution that respects the rights and interests of all parties and restores security and stability in Europe,” said Dr Al Zayani, stressing Bahrain’s readiness to play any role in this regard.
The ministers reviewed developments in the global political and security situation, ongoing wars and conflicts and their devastating effects on economic, social and humanitarian levels, and in particular in the Middle East region.
Dr Al Zayani also highlighted the importance of a settlement for the Palestinian issue, with the establishment of a viable and independent Palestinian State. He called for a political settlement to end the internecine clashes in Sudan.
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