Bahrain keen to expand UN cooperation

TDT | Manama     

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain is keen to strengthen cooperation with the United Nations in promoting international peace, security, human rights, environmental protection, and sustainable development goals as strategic fundamentals.

This was emphasised by His Excellency Dr. Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs, adding that it was in light of the diplomatic approach of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and the directives of the government, led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

Dr. Abdullah bin Ahmed made the statement during the meeting of the Joint Steering Committee between the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United Nations agencies, chaired by the Political Affairs Undersecretary.

Khalid Al Meqwad, the UN Resident Coordinator in Bahrain, and representatives from relevant ministries, government agencies, national institutions, and 21 specialised organisations attended the meeting, held at the Ministry’s headquarters via video communication technology. The meeting reviewed potential cooperation between Bahrain and the UN to activate the strategic cooperation framework for sustainable development (2021-2024).

It focused on strengthening anti-human trafficking mechanisms, early education projects, and planting mangrove trees. The Kingdom also discussed new visions and projects for the strategic cooperation framework for 2025-2029, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.

Progress

Dr. Abdullah bin Ahmed commended Bahrain’s progress in strengthening its historical and strategic cooperation with United Nations agencies, highlighting its success in various fields. Bahrain’s successes include discussing national reports within the universal periodic review of human rights, implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and addressing the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women.

These achievements align with the government’s programme and economic vision of Bahrain 2030, he added. Al Meqwad praised constructive cooperation with the government and national institutions in Bahrain, which serves human rights, sustainable development plans, and projects related to economic diversification, human development, environment, energy, food security, and the economy.