Welcome news from Bahrain

With the release of a number of detainees who were involved in the recent violent disturbances in Bahrain, a new chapter of reconciliation has been opened. At no point should the country allow sectarian or factional differences to take root in society.

Bahrain's King Hamad Bin Eisa Al Khalifa has ordered the release of 225 prisoners who were being detained for their role in the clashes with the country's security forces over the past few months. The violent incidents resulted in enormous damage to buildings and property as well as the deaths of a number of protestors and security personnel. No doubt the measure taken by the king was reconciliatory in its nature and approach, as much as a necessity.

For some time now, Bahrain has been focusing its efforts on paving the way for a future where all factions and groups - whatever opposing views they may hold - would come together under a broad banner of national unity.

This, of course, cannot be achieved unless violence as an option is completely ruled out, and transparent talks and exchanges of views and ideas are adopted.