WASHINGTON: Bahrain's progress has been praised as a role model for other countries.
Developments in democratic practices, women's rights and religious freedom could serve as an outstanding example for other countries keen on social peace and outstanding achievement, speakers said at a forum at the US Congress.
It focused on reforms launched by His Majesty King Hamad.
The session was held on Thursday in the presence of members of the US Congress and Bahrain's Shura Council, diplomats, journalists, members of the Bahrain-US Friendship Society and civil society representatives.
Society president Admiral Tony Less said that the forum was a good opportunity to learn about a leading experience in the Middle East, stressing that the positive developments in Bahrain deserve to be highlighted.
Admiral Less said that Bahrain's interest in promoting women's right and status deserved to be applauded.
He pointed out that the presence of Huda Nonoo, a Jewish Bahraini, as her country's ambassador in the US was evidence about the high level of tolerance and openness prevailing in Bahrain.
Congressmen stressed that Bahrain proved that countries small in size could lead the world to changes.
Shura Council First Vice Chairman Jamal Fakhro outlined the reforms process that has led to outstanding successes in democracy and human rights.
Dr Nada Haffadh, a member of the council and the Supreme Council for Women, highlighted the progress achieved by Bahraini women in the last 10 years.
Bahraini author Nancy Khedouri praised religious freedom in the country, saying that it was an oasis of peace, tolerance, peaceful co-existence and cultural diversity.
