IISS committed to keep dialogue relevant: Dr. Giegerich

TDT | Manama

Email: ashen@newsofbahrain.com

The 20th Manama Dialogue commenced with a keynote from Dr. Bastian Giegerich, Director-General of the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), who lauded Bahrain’s leadership in advancing peace and security. Dr. Giegerich recognised the silver jubilee of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s accession as a testament to the Kingdom’s steadfast commitment to diplomacy.

He also acknowledged the instrumental role of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister in shaping the dialogue into a vital platform for regional and global cooperation, calling their vision the foundation of the event’s success.

Strategic Reflection

Recalling last year’s keynote by the Crown Prince, Dr. Giegerich emphasised its powerful call for a shift in regional narratives - moving away from political posturing and actions that undermine security, and instead embracing collaboration, honest dialogue, and the aspirations of the region’s people. “For two decades, the IISS Manama Dialogue has fostered dialogue and facilitated cooperation,” Dr. Giegerich said, highlighting the forum’s role in shaping decisions and encouraging reflection on critical challenges. He reaffirmed the IISS’s commitment to keeping the dialogue relevant and engaging amid evolving regional dynamics.

Future Voices

This year’s dialogue places special focus on young leaders, reflecting IISS’s dedication to empowering the next generation of policymakers. Dr. Giegerich stressed the importance of their participation in crafting innovative strategies for the future.