Glory of tolerance

Manama : Bahrain is the homeland of all and the country where the rule of law is supreme, human dignity is safeguarded and rituals are protected, said His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. 

“Bahrain will always remain the bulwark against all foreign quests that threaten the security of the region. We will always promote the values of moderation, tolerance and coexistence,” HM the King stressed. “We will also consolidate the values of political action based on the principles of the National Action Charter, the Constitution, respect for the rule of law and the sovereignty of national decisions.” 

HM King Hamad was speaking during the opening of the third session of the Fourth Legislative Term at Isa Cultural Centre yesterday. 

Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa was also present on the occasion.  

Calling for global unity to snuff out terrorism, he said, “Security and development are closely entwined and through them sustainability is achieved. Each of them is facing extraordinary challenges that are an ominous threat to the region.” 

Earlier, HM the King was welcomed by the Speaker of the Council of Representatives, Ahmed bin Ibrahim Al-Mulla; and Chairman of the Shura Council Ali bin Saleh.

On growth mode

“In spite of the economic situation across the world, the government has been able to maintain an appropriate level of economic growth through the diversification of sources of income, the stimulation of investment and the consolidation of strategic. The government also took urgent measures to rationalise public spending and to redirect subsidies in order to better meet the needs of our citizens,” he explained.

HM the King appreciated Prime Minister HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and HRH Crown Prince for their diligent and constant efforts in following up the government action and implementing its programmes. 

Meanwhile, the King also praised the role played by women for the progress of the nation. 

“Bahraini women’s comm-itment dates back to the 1920s and I fully appreciate and support it,” he commented, adding: “On this occasion, I congratulate the Supreme Council for Women on the 15th anniversary of its establishment.” 

HM the King also lauded the efforts of the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF) and the soldiers.