National cohesion stressed in HM King's addresses to the nation

Manama, Dec. 15 (BNA): His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa patronised at Al-Sakhir Palace today a ceremony on the Kingdom's celebrations of the glorious National Day and HM the King's Accession Day. HM King Hamad delivered the following address: "In the name of God, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate "Praise be to God, and prayers and peace be upon God’s Prophet Mohammed and his family and companions "Your Highnesses and Excellencies, "Honourable guests, "Peace and God’s mercy and blessings be upon you "We are pleased to share with you today the glorious national celebrations on the anniversary of the establishment of the prestigious state of Bahrain as an independent Arab-Islamic entity, during the era of the Founder, Ahmed Al Fateh, about 230 years ago, and the 16th anniversary of our rule of the country. "This is an auspicious occasion to recall the positive progress and pioneering achievements of our honourable forefathers, may God rest their souls in peace. "It is also an occasion to express our appreciation to the national stances of the loyal people of Bahrain throughout the nation’s modern history. Such stances have enabled Bahrain to overcome numerous difficulties, to achieve the status that matches the level of sacrifices and contributions, and keep the comprehensive progress moving forward steadily towards further reforms and modernisation as per our wishes. "We would like to emphasise, as we celebrate our glorious national days, the need for cohesion between all people in order to protect our gains and achievements. And to be proud of the achievements we have accomplished thanks to our efforts that compete in their performance with the world’s finest, especially when we take into account the exceptional economic and security situations in many countries. "Bahrain has taken all necessary precautions and measures to be spared the negative effects of such situations, but without neglecting our policy of sustainable development aimed at promoting social stability and economic growth, and protecting and developing our environment. "We pray Allah the Almighty, on the first occasion of Commemoration Day tomorrow, to bestow His mercy on those who have had the honour to sacrifice their lives for their nation since the first day of the foundation of the country until today. We pray that He grants them Heaven. "We find solace in the high dignity of those who have dedicated themselves, without the slightest hesitation, in response to the call of duty and regardless of the sacrifices. "Brothers and Sisters, "The valuable and successive contributions of Bahrain’s men and women prompt us to proudly celebrate and highlight them in a befitting manner. Such contributions represent an invaluable wealth and a guiding light for future generations that inspires them and encourages them to continue the trail of nation building and dedication. "As we are keen in keeping with our annual traditions, on honouring all those who are dedicated and devoted to serving the nation, it gives us pleasure to pay tribute to them on the "Day of the Nation" and to praise them as we are grateful and proud, and thus present through them a model of Bahraini experience and expertise that has never failed since the establishment of this blessed entity. "We congratulate and thank them for making the progress of Bahrain their destiny. "We reiterate our pride in loyal devotion and outstanding performance that contribute to leading our beloved homeland towards brighter days and a more brilliant future, God willing. "Many happy returns of our national days "Peace and God’s mercy and blessings be upon you."