On Monday, September 29, 2025, Pope Leo XIV welcomed Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, His Royal Highness Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, to the Vatican for a high-level meeting that underscored the Holy See’s commitment to fostering peace, interreligious dialogue, and strengthened diplomatic relations. The encounter, held in the Apostolic Palace, was marked by a shared sense of urgency to address pressing global challenges, particularly the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, while reinforcing the deep ties between the Vatican and the Kingdom of Bahrain. The discussions, described by Vatican News as both cordial and substantive, covered a range of topics, from the pursuit of peace in a volatile region to Bahrain’s notable efforts in promoting religious coexistence and interfaith understanding.
The meeting, which took place against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East, served as a platform for both leaders to reaffirm their dedication to dialogue as a pathway to peace. According to Vatican News, the Holy See’s official media outlet, the discussions emphasized “the urgent need to end the war in the Middle East and the commitment to peace among nations.” This focus reflects the Vatican’s longstanding role as a moral and diplomatic voice advocating for non-violence and reconciliation in conflict zones, as well as Bahrain’s strategic position as a Gulf state that has prioritized stability and coexistence in a region often marked by sectarian divides.
A Shared Vision for Peace in the Middle East
The Middle East, a region with a complex tapestry of cultures, religions, and political dynamics, has been a focal point for both the Vatican and Bahrain in their respective diplomatic and humanitarian efforts. The ongoing conflicts in the region—ranging from the protracted Israeli-Palestinian issue to the devastating wars in Syria, Yemen, and elsewhere—have caused immense human suffering, displaced millions, and strained international relations. Pope Leo XIV, continuing the legacy of his predecessors, has made peacebuilding a cornerstone of his papacy, frequently calling for ceasefires, humanitarian aid, and dialogue to resolve disputes. His meeting with Crown Prince Salman provided an opportunity to align their perspectives on these critical issues.
During the discussions, both leaders expressed deep concern over the humanitarian toll of ongoing conflicts. While specific conflicts were not detailed in the Vatican News report, it is likely that the conversation touched on the need for diplomatic interventions to de-escalate tensions and provide relief to affected populations. The Middle East’s strategic importance, coupled with its religious significance as the birthplace of Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, makes it a priority for the Vatican, which seeks to protect religious minorities and promote interfaith harmony.
Bahrain, under the leadership of King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and Crown Prince Salman, has positioned itself as a regional leader in advocating for peaceful coexistence. The kingdom’s relatively small size belies its outsized influence in Gulf diplomacy, where it has sought to balance modernization with respect for its cultural and religious heritage. The Vatican, with its global moral authority, shares Bahrain’s interest in fostering stability through dialogue, making this meeting a natural convergence of shared goals.
Bahrain’s Commitment to Interreligious Dialogue
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to Bahrain’s efforts to promote interreligious dialogue and the peaceful coexistence of different faiths within its borders. Vatican News highlighted that “attention was given to the Kingdom of Bahrain’s policy of promoting interreligious dialogue and the peaceful coexistence of different religions within the Kingdom.” This focus reflects Bahrain’s unique position in the Gulf region as a state that has actively worked to bridge divides between religious communities, particularly between its Sunni and Shia Muslim populations, as well as its small but significant Christian, Jewish, and Hindu minorities.
Bahrain’s commitment to interfaith initiatives is exemplified by initiatives such as the King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Coexistence, established to promote tolerance and understanding among religious communities. The kingdom has also hosted international interfaith conferences and signed landmark agreements, such as the 2017 Bahrain Declaration, which outlines principles for religious freedom and coexistence. These efforts resonate deeply with the Vatican’s mission to foster ecumenism and interreligious understanding, a priority that has been central to the Catholic Church’s engagement with the modern world since the Second Vatican Council (1962–1965).
Pope Leo XIV, known for his emphasis on dialogue with other faiths, likely commended Bahrain’s initiatives during the meeting. The Vatican has a long history of engaging with Muslim-majority countries, with notable milestones including Pope Francis’s 2019 visit to the United Arab Emirates, where he signed the Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together with the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmed Al-Tayeb. The Bahrain meeting builds on this legacy, signaling the Holy See’s continued investment in partnerships with Gulf nations to promote mutual respect and collaboration across religious lines.
The discussion on interreligious dialogue also likely touched on the challenges of protecting religious minorities in the Middle East. In recent decades, Christian communities in countries such as Iraq, Syria, and Egypt have faced persecution, displacement, and violence, prompting the Vatican to advocate for their safety and rights. Bahrain’s model of coexistence, while not without its challenges, offers a potential framework for other nations in the region. By highlighting Bahrain’s policies, the meeting underscored the importance of practical steps—such as legal protections, community engagement, and educational initiatives—in fostering environments where diverse faiths can thrive.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
The Vatican and Bahrain have enjoyed cordial diplomatic relations since establishing formal ties in 2000, and Monday’s meeting reaffirmed the desire to deepen this partnership. Vatican News noted that both sides expressed appreciation for their “good bilateral relations” and agreed to “further strengthen them.” This commitment reflects the mutual recognition of the strategic and moral value of their relationship, which serves as a bridge between the Catholic Church’s global influence and Bahrain’s regional leadership.
The Vatican’s diplomatic relations with Bahrain are part of its broader engagement with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, which include Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman. These relationships have grown in importance as the Gulf region navigates rapid social and economic changes while maintaining its pivotal role in global energy markets and geopolitics. For Bahrain, ties with the Vatican offer an opportunity to enhance its international standing as a progressive and inclusive state, particularly in the realm of religious tolerance.
The discussions likely included practical steps to strengthen bilateral cooperation, such as cultural exchanges, joint initiatives on humanitarian issues, and continued dialogue on shared priorities. For example, the Vatican and Bahrain could explore collaborations in education, where Catholic institutions and Bahraini universities might partner to promote interfaith studies or peacebuilding programs. Additionally, the two sides may have discussed ways to support humanitarian efforts in conflict zones, leveraging the Vatican’s global network of charitable organizations and Bahrain’s contributions to regional stability.
Additional Meetings with Vatican Officials
In addition to his audience with Pope Leo XIV, Crown Prince Salman held separate talks with two senior Vatican officials: Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, and Monsignor Miroslaw Stanislaw Wachowski, the Under-Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations. These meetings, which are customary during high-level visits to the Vatican, allowed for a deeper exploration of diplomatic and policy-related issues.
Cardinal Parolin, often described as the Vatican’s equivalent of a prime minister, plays a central role in shaping the Holy See’s foreign policy. His discussion with the crown prince likely focused on the practical aspects of Vatican-Bahrain relations, including potential areas for collaboration on global issues such as climate change, migration, and poverty alleviation. As a seasoned diplomat, Parolin would have emphasized the Vatican’s commitment to working with Bahrain to advance shared goals, particularly in the realm of peacebuilding.
Monsignor Wachowski, whose role involves managing the Vatican’s day-to-day diplomatic engagements, likely addressed more technical aspects of the relationship, such as coordinating future dialogues or addressing specific regional concerns. His involvement underscores the Vatican’s meticulous approach to diplomacy, ensuring that high-level meetings translate into actionable outcomes.
Broader Context and Implications
The meeting between Pope Leo XIV and Crown Prince Salman takes place at a time of significant global and regional challenges. The Middle East remains a focal point for international concern, with conflicts, economic pressures, and political transitions shaping the region’s trajectory. The Vatican, as a neutral and moral authority, seeks to influence these dynamics through soft power, advocating for solutions that prioritize human dignity and justice. Bahrain, meanwhile, navigates its role as a small but influential player in the Gulf, balancing domestic reforms with its strategic alliances.
The emphasis on interreligious dialogue during the meeting reflects a broader trend in global diplomacy, where faith-based initiatives are increasingly recognized as tools for conflict resolution and social cohesion. The Vatican’s engagement with Bahrain aligns with its broader strategy of building bridges with Muslim-majority countries, particularly in the Gulf, where rapid modernization has created opportunities for dialogue but also challenges in preserving cultural and religious identities.
For Bahrain, the meeting with Pope Leo XIV enhances its reputation as a forward-thinking nation committed to tolerance and inclusivity. The kingdom’s leadership has made significant strides in promoting religious freedom, including the establishment of the first Catholic cathedral in the Gulf, Our Lady of Arabia, which was inaugurated in 2021. This gesture, along with Bahrain’s hosting of interfaith events, has earned it praise from the Vatican and other international observers.
The discussions also carry implications for the broader Catholic community in the Gulf. The region is home to millions of migrant workers, many of whom are Catholic, particularly from countries such as the Philippines, India, and Sri Lanka. Ensuring their religious and social rights is a priority for the Vatican, and Bahrain’s policies provide a model for accommodating diverse faith communities in a Muslim-majority context.
Looking Ahead
The meeting between Pope Leo XIV and Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa marks a significant moment in Vatican-Bahrain relations, reinforcing their shared commitment to peace, dialogue, and cooperation. As the Middle East continues to grapple with conflict and division, the partnership between the Holy See and Bahrain offers a hopeful example of how diplomacy and mutual respect can pave the way for progress.
Moving forward, both sides are likely to build on the outcomes of this meeting through concrete initiatives, such as joint humanitarian projects, interfaith conferences, or educational partnerships. The Vatican’s moral authority, combined with Bahrain’s regional influence, creates a powerful synergy that could inspire other nations to prioritize dialogue and coexistence.
In a world often divided by ideology and conflict, the encounter at the Vatican serves as a reminder of the potential for collaboration across cultural and religious lines. By addressing the urgent need for peace in the Middle East, promoting interreligious understanding, and strengthening bilateral ties, Pope Leo XIV and Crown Prince Salman have set a positive tone for future engagement, offering a beacon of hope in challenging times.