Bahrain's Emir speaks on regional issues

Emir of Bahrain Sheikh Issa Bin Salman al-Khaleifa said that no one can stop the train of peace, which is the language of modern times.

In a statement to the London-based Lebanese magazine al- Hawadith issued on Thursday, Sheikh Issa added that Netanyahu's policy constitutes a major obstruction on the road to peace, but peace "will be victorious by the end."

The Bahraini Emir asserted that a US initiative is necessary for restart the peace process. He described the European role in the Middle East peace process as vital and badly needed, noting that such a European role is not to replace the US efforts but the complement it.

On relations between Bahrain and Iran, Sheikh Issa said, "Iran is an Islamic state and a neighborly country which has strategic weight in the region." He added that Bahrain is always for best relations with Iran based on mutual respect and non-intervention in internal affairs. He indicated improvements in Bahraini - Iranian relations after President Khatami assumed office in Iran.

Sheikh Issa also called for eliminating all weapons of mass destruction in the region, stating, "We are against piling nuclear weapons in the region."

On the future of Lebanon, Sheikh Issa expressed confidence that Lebanon would flourish more than ever before, thanks to the collective efforts of its leaders and people.

He concluded by noting Bahrain's ties with Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Syria, "built on fraternity, understanding and joint efforts to serve the Arab nation's issues."