HRH Premier: Bahraini people is patriotism, unity role model

Manama, Dec. 8 (BNA): His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa has affirmed that Bahrain will be recorded in history as the first country in the region to be targeted because evil intentions have been lurking out to drag it into a state of anarchy and instability. History will also record that the Bahraini people has thwarted all such malicious intentions, eliminated the plots and rallied behind the leadership thanks to its awareness, cohesion and patriotism, he said. "We are not saying this to praise our people, but to convey a lesson to the coming generations. They should know that the Bahraini people, from all its segments, have been, throughout history, fortified against attempts to fragment its national unity through playing on the sectarian chord, and therefore it set itself as a role model in unity and patriotism, and history repeats itself." He added. HRH the Prime Minister made the statements as he received at the Gudaibiya Palace today intellectual, press and cultural personalities, senior state officials and dignitaries. HRH Premier asserted that Bahrain will always remain fine and strong thanks to the wisdom of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and its citizens' cohesion and keenness to develop their nation and protect it for the future generations. On regional developments, HRH Premier expressed regret the fact the region had been dragged into tensions and conflicts on purpose in order to distract the Arab Nation and make it shift its focus from the Palestinian cause to other secondary matters, stressing that despite those attempts, the Palestinian issue will remain the first cause for the Arab and Islamic nations until it is resolved. HRH the Prime Minister urged caution and vigilance amid the unfolding regional developments aimed at impeding the development process of the countries of the region and shifting their attention and priorities. HRH Premier wished the 36th Summit of the Supreme Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), set to be opened in Riyadh tomorrow, affirming that there is still hope to achieve Gulf Union in order to boost the GCC march further. HRH the Prime Minister lauded the pioneering role played by the Press and columnists in highlighting the "pulse of society" and interacting with social issues. "The word is influential and strong, and we respect all opinions. I am proud of the Press, as well as its affiliates and columnist in light of the issues they are raising. They deserve our thanks and appreciation," he said.