HM King issues directive to improve government efficiency

Manama, Sep.18 (BNA): Information Affairs Minister Isa bin Abdulrahman Al-Hammadi, today said that as a result of an economic and fiscal report delivered by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince to His Majesty the King, His Majesty has issued a directive that will lead to enhanced efficiency and effectiveness across government, “in order to strengthen on-going efforts to improve the country’s fiscal position.” The minister added that “a range of structural reforms to reduce the size of government departments and the Cabinet are being considered in consultation with His Royal Highness the Prime Minister.” The minister noted that “Bahrain has one of the most diversified economies in the region following a decade of economic reforms, and that oil now accounts for only a fifth of Bahrain’s GDP." "However, the government is focused on continuing its efficiency programme and building on the recently approved State Budget, to further reduce government spending and drive growth in key sectors," he said. In addition, the minister emphasised that “due to the government’s on-going inclusive reform programme, Bahrain’s parliament is now playing an even greater role in addressing the country’s priorities, which include economic and fiscal issues, and that any reform will not adversely affect the priorities of the Government Action Plan or the living standards of Bahrain’s citizens.”