National Dialogue Spokesman Issues Statement of Regret in Response to Al Wefaq's Intention to Withdraw from the National Dialogue

MANAMA, Bahrain, July 18, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In a statement issued today, Official Spokesman Isa Abdul Rahman expressed his regret that prominent opposition political society Al Wefaq announced its intention to withdraw from the National Dialogue.

"We regret the decision, by any participant, to withdraw from Bahrain's Dialogue. The process provides an important platform for participants to promote the views and interests of the people they represent," he said. "We strongly encourage all participants remain fully engaged in the Dialogue process. We call on delegates to set aside their differences, and make every effort to move forward."

He continued, saying, "We consider Al Wefaq's contribution to the dialogue as central to its success thus far. It is sometimes harder to stay and help shape the solution than to walk away. Now is the moment to heal divides and unite behind a shared vision of Bahrain's future."

The Spokesman underlined that: "Should any participant choose to exclude themselves from the process, the door will remain open for them to return to the talks. Regardless of any participant's decision to leave, the Dialogue will continue. This is a time to be engaged, open, creative and to demonstrate willingness to take bold decisions."

Although it has not yet received formal notification of Al Wefaq's decision to withdraw, Mr. Abdul Rahman responded to the party's criticism of the National Dialogue's procedures.

"The talks adhere to internationally recognized standards for achieving consensus. All participants signed up to these procedures at the outset of the Dialogue," Abdul Rahman said. "In order to ensure a full airing of the issues, each of the parties was given ample opportunity to raise any matter it considers relevant."

Specifically responding to criticism of the Dialogue's composition, Mr. Abdul Rahman said: "The inclusive approach adopted seeks to enrich the dialogue and reflect the aspirations of our society. Al Wefaq represents a sizable portion of our population but we have a duty of responsibility to ensure that all voices are heard and that the loudest speaker does not drown out the quieter voices."

SOURCE Kingdom of Bahrain

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