Premier urges stronger Arab cooperation

Manama, Oct. 6 (BNA): His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa urged to broaden the scope of economic and trade cooperation between the Arab countries by adopting new formulae that will lead to the emergence of an Arab economic power capable of competing with global economic blocs. He was speaking as he received at Gudaibiya Palace today Honorary President of the General Union of Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture for Arab Countries Adnan Kassar and Secretary General Dr. Imad Amine Shehab. HRH the Premier underlined the need for concerted Arab efforts to fast-track economic cooperation and boost pan-Arab relations. He stressed the union's key role in this respect, pointing out the importance of economic growth in bolstering people's welfare. He said anarchy and destruction in some countries in the region represent a hindrance to economic growth and a major challenge that can be overcome only through full cooperation. He underscored the government's support to the trade sector given its substantial importance for development in Bahrain and the Arab countries. On his part, Mr. Kassar lauded Bahrain's development, commending the care given by the government to the Lebanese community.