Manama : The world bid farewell to Pope Francis, a major religious figure known for his humanitarian contributions, dedication to peace, and efforts to promote tolerance and coexistence among religions.
In November 2022, Pope Francis visited Bahrain, where he participated in the Bahrain Dialogue Forum: East and West for Human Coexistence and met with His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The visit underscored the shared values of peace, coexistence, and dialogue between Bahrain and the Vatican, reflecting a mutual commitment to strengthening ties among cultures and religions.
During his closing remarks at the Bahrain Dialogue Forum, Pope Francis described Bahrain as a beacon of human connection and unity among distant peoples. He highlighted Bahrain’s identity, shaped by its surrounding waters, noting that while land may divide, the sea brings people together. He reflected that Earth, when viewed from above, appears as a vast blue expanse connecting distant shores, serving as a reminder that humanity is one family rather than isolated islands. Pope Francis noted that Bahrain, with its more than thirty islands, stands as a symbol of this divine will for unity.
Pope Francis also expressed appreciation for Bahrain’s environment of religious freedom, its respect for pluralism, and its protection of beliefs. He commended Bahrain’s hosting of Islamic-Christian dialogue conferences and forums, which further demonstrated its commitment to promoting the values of tolerance and peaceful coexistence globally.
Relations between Bahrain and the Vatican have long been based on mutual respect and constructive cooperation, particularly in promoting interfaith dialogue and humanitarian causes. Formal diplomatic ties were established on January 12, 2000, and have continued to strengthen over the years.
This partnership has been reinforced through the exchange of visits and initiatives, including His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s visit to the Vatican in May 2014 at the invitation of Pope Francis, the visit of Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin to Bahrain in May 2014, and the historic visit of Pope Francis to Bahrain in November 2022. His Majesty King Hamad also visited the Vatican on October 16, 2023. Other key visits included that of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in February 2020, and the visit of Archbishop Francisco Montecillo Padilla, the Apostolic Nuncio accredited to Bahrain and resident in Kuwait, to Bahrain in December 2016.
Pope Francis leaves behind a lasting legacy of service to humanity, peace, and dialogue. His commitment to supporting justice, protecting the environment, and defending the rights of the vulnerable, including the Palestinian people, will continue to be remembered and appreciated around the world.
