HM the King: BCCI a key development partner

Manama, Apr. 8 (BNA): His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has affirmed the importance of the crucial role played by the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) in supporting the Kingdom's trade and industrial march, and consolidating its status and position on the regional and global economic map. HM King Hamad praised the prestigious reputation earned by the private sector in Bahrain for long years through trade exchange with many countries thanks to the kingdom's strategic location which represents a main crossing for global trade, stressing that Bahrain has always been a centre for trade and education and a harbour that links the East and the West since ancient times. HM King Hamad also asserted that BCCI has become an effective and pivotal partner in the comprehensive development march thanks to the landmark achievements of businessmen and traders, who, he said, had contributed dedicatedly to the nation's progress and prosperity. While receiving at Al-Sakhir Palace today the Board of Directors of the BCCI, led by its Chairman Khalid Abdulrahman Al-Moayyad, HM the King congratulated BCCI on its diamond jubilee and praised its outstanding achievements throughout its long history in the economic, trade and industrial fields, being the first elected chamber in the Arabian Gulf region. HM King Hamad reiterated his support to the trade and industrial sector so as to be able to carry on its effective role, achieve more successes and maintain the leading role of the Bahraini economy, which, he said, has managed to ensure a great confidence among regional and global economic circles, which is reflected in its ability to attract various investments, economic projects and financial and trade institutions. HM the King re-affirmed keenness to put in place all what is required for boosting the trade activities in the kingdom. HM King Hamad asserted that the people of Bahrain belongs to one nation that embraces all religions and sects within an atmosphere of harmony and one-family spirt, stressing that Bahrain is moving forward on the path of progress, prosperity and comprehensive development thanks to the efforts of all its citizens who are united in their dedication in the service of the homeland. HM the King expressed pride in BCCI's Board, which comprises an outstanding elite of Bahraini traders and businessmen who have devoted themselves in serving the private sector and developing its performance, following in the footsteps of the pioneers of the trade and business sector in the kingdom, wishing BCCI Board every success. BCCI Chairman Khalid Abdulrahman Al Moayyad extended sincere thanks, appreciation and gratitude to HM King Hamad for the audience, and interest in boosting the trade and economic sector. He lauded HM the King's support for BCCI, and constant keenness on consolidating its role and activating the role of the private sector in the Kingdom's economic development process. He praised the security and stability enjoyed by the Kingdom under HM King Hamad's leadership. He pledged that BCCI will do its utmost to assume its various economic roles in enhancing development and investments.