HRH Premier receives Russian ambassador

Manama, March 8 (BNA)-- His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa urged Russia today to be closer to its friends in the region. Speaking at a meeting with outgoing Russian Ambassador to Bahrain Victor Smirnov, he said Russia is a major country and Bahrain is keen to bolster its relations with it. HRH the Premier lauded the successful policy of Russian President Vladimir Putin which, he said, has fostered Russia' s strength and boosted its status in the international community. "We look at Russia with utmost respect for its principled stances in supporting its friends and allies," he said, stressing Bahrain's keenness on more cooperation with Russia in various fields. HRH the Prime Minister underlined strong and ever-growing relations with Russia, calling on officials from both countries to further cement them. He also praised the efforts made by the Russian ambassador to further solidify bilateral links which are based on mutual respect. On his part, the Russian ambassador commended the Bahraini government's strength in facing challenges and combating terrorism and its instigators. He also lauded the government's keenness to promote bilateral relations and cooperation, thanking HRH the Premier for his support to facilitate his diplomatic work in Bahrain.