The forum was co-chaired by Nasser Bourita, the Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, and Sergey Lavrov, the Russian Foreign Affairs Minister.
Speaking at the forum, Dr. Al Zayani said that the Kingdom of Bahrain perceived the historical ties between Russia and Arab countries, as distinguished relations based on mutual respect, understanding, and interests; adding that they hold great importance for global stability, security, and prosperity.
The Sixth Session of The Arab-Russian Cooperation Forum presents an excellent opportunity to enhance cooperation, Al Zayani added, welcoming the adoption of an action plan for 2024-2026.
The minister expressed appreciation for Russia's significant geopolitical role in the Middle East and its efforts to address Arab countries' crises, expressing hope for increased cooperation and coordination.
The Russian Federation, as a permanent member of the Security Council, is expected to contribute to regional peace and alleviate current tensions, including the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, Al Zayani said.
He expressed appreciation for Russia's initiative to submit a resolution for the Gaza Strip war and support UN resolutions
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bahrain has reiterated the importance of a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine war through dialogue, to ensure the interests of both parties as well global security and stability.
Dr. Al Zayani emphasised the need to renew the Black Sea Grain Initiative to ensure food security for affected countries.
The minister hoped that this session of the forum will issue recommendations and decisions that will strengthen Arab-Russian cooperation to address security and economic challenges.
The meeting discussed cooperation between Arab countries and Russia, and the ministers approved the action plan for the Arab-Russian Cooperation Forum 2024-2026, focusing on enhancing cooperation in various domains.
The ministers discussed the latest Middle East developments, international issues, and political, economic, and cultural relations between the Arab League and Russia to strengthen cooperation.
The meeting concluded with a joint declaration emphasising the importance of dialogue and cooperation between the two sides, the need for concerted efforts to enhance global stability, and the necessity of strengthening political dialogue to coordinate common positions in international forums, based on equal and undiminished security.
The ministers emphasised the need for international and regional efforts to find political solutions to regional crises, enhance state security, respect sovereignty, stop fighting, and reject external interference; and to support the efforts of United Nations and the League of Arab States in this regard.
Both sides condemned Israeli aggression in Gaza, targeting civilians, destroying infrastructure, and violating international humanitarian law by enforcing a siege on Palestinians.
The two sides have urged the UN General Assembly to enforce a ceasefire for humanitarian reasons, ensuring compliance with international law, particularly regarding protecting civilians and facilitating access of humanitarian aid.
