Human Rights Minister Salah bin Ali Abdulrahman received Japanese Ambassador to Bahrain Shigeki Sumi. He lauded solid and historic relations of friendship between both countries and their progress in various fields. The minister also highlighted Bahrain’s ongoing reform steps spearheaded by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa at all levels. He stressed the comprehensive reform steps brought about by the royal reform project in all fields, pointing out that continuity of the democratic reform march requires concerted efforts by all components of the Bahraini society to achieve the legitimate aspirations of the Bahraini people for a secure life, stable country and sustainable prosperity. He also described the heinous terror blast at a mosque car park in Riffa as a dangerous turning point undermining the country’s security and stability and harming the social texture. He asserted that the wisdom of the leadership will steer Bahrain to the shore of peace trough a set of procedures being carried out in line with the royal directives to ensure justice by enforcing the law. The minister underscored the government’s cooperation with the UN human rights bodies, spotlighting Bahrain’s achievements in implementing the recommendations of the Human Rights Council. He also discussed with the Japanese ambassador boosting bilateral cooperation in the human rights field. On his part, the Japanese ambassador voiced understanding of the challenges facing Bahrain and encouraged to maintain cooperation with the UN human rights mechanisms. He also stressed the need to protect unity of Bahrain and its people by engaging in consensual dialogue that will ensure continuity of the democratic march for benefit of all the people.