Information Minister: Bahrain is gearing for F1

Manama, Apr. 13 (BNA)-- Bahrain has completed all security, promotional and media preparations to host the 2015 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, Information Minister Isa bin Abdulrahman Al Hammadi stressed. He added the Interior Ministry would legally handle any attempts to disrupt the international event, which is set to be held from April 17 to 19 at Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), in Sakhir. He said the race is of paramount importance due to its positive contribution to the national economy and entertainment role. He stressed that firm measures would be taken against any attempts to undermine Bahrain's interests before, during and after the race. The minister pointed out that ticket sales soared by 22% this year, compared to last year, as stated recently by BIC officials, which shows perpetual development of the promotional plan. He noted that specified procedures have been taken to ensure easy traffic flow during the event which attracts thousands of fans. He praised success of the General Directorate of Traffic in the previous years in enforcing the regulations. Concerning preparations of the Information Affairs Authority (IAA) to cover the races, the Information Minister revealed that a massive programme had been put in place to provide full coverage of the event by Bahrain TV and Radio while complying with the transmission rights. Regarding the state budget 2015-2016, he noted that coordination is being made by the government and relevant parties to prepare the budget and submit it to the legislative branch in the next weeks.