Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Ambassador to the UK and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Islamic Cultural Centre (ICC), hosted a reception at the ICC premises in London as part of the kingdom's foreign policy commitment to advancing global peace and harmonious coexistence.
The gathering, organized in commemoration of the International Day of Tolerance observed globally on November 16, underscores Bahrain's dedication to championing the principles of tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and the promotion of peace and religious freedom.
The event drew the attendance of ambassadors accredited to the UK, members of the British Parliament, leaders representing various religions, government officials, individuals passionate about religious and sectarian diversity, as well as students studying in Britain.
In his address, Afzal Khan, a member of the UK House of Commons, highlighted the importance of fostering connections among people as a crucial means to establish peace. He emphasized that the international community can only discover common ties and values through such efforts.
Lord Mann, Independent Adviser to the UK Government on Antisemitism, also spoke at the ceremony, emphasizing the shared responsibility of the international community to confront all forms of discrimination and bias. He stressed the importance of defending diversity and promoting mutual understanding and respect among communities and religions, asserting that a commitment to tolerance and coexistence is essential to overcoming challenges.
Reverend Dr. Anders Bergquist, Vicar of St John's Wood Church adjacent to the London Central Mosque, urged increased personal efforts in embracing the idea of cultural and religious rapprochement, emphasizing its significance in building an interconnected and tolerant society.
Baroness Manzila Uddin, a member of the UK House of Lords, asserted that in the face of global complexities and challenges, building bridges of understanding and tolerance is crucial. She highlighted that rapprochement is the most effective way to address these challenges, preserve the rights of all, and respect differences.
Anisa Mahmoud, Director of the Anti-Islamophobia Working Group, addressed the need to raise awareness about Islamophobia and combat it in society, particularly in schools, workplaces, and social media.
The Kingdom of Bahrain is committed to serving as a beacon for coexistence among diverse civilizations, cultures, and religions. Accordingly, the Embassy of the Kingdom to the UK actively supports initiatives that foster peaceful coexistence and strengthen cultural and social ties among peoples and religions.