BIAS 2016 Gala Dinner held for participating delegations

Manama, Jan. 21(BNA): On behalf of His Highness Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad AlKhalifa, Personal Representative of His Majesty the King and Chairman of the Supreme Organising Committee for the Bahrain International Airshow, the Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed welcomed the participants of the fourth edition of the show at a gala dinner held tonight on the occasion of BIAS’ opening. The minister praised the role of the Supreme Organising Committee chaired by HH Shaikh Abdullah for their efforts in enabling the growth and success of the show, positioning it amongst international aviation events and attracting the top international aviation companies. The minister emphasized the importance of the participation of companies across the aerospace supply chain, as well as the displays of the latest aircraft and ancillary services, across both civil and military aviation sectors. As evidenced by the large participation of companies, delegations, flying and static aircraft seen on the first day of the show, BIAS 2016 offers wide ranging opportunities for the aviation industry, which is growing at a rapid pace. "As part of the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications’ mandate, the aviation industry is considered a fundamental pillar of national economic development, and we are investing heavily across numerous projects to improve the infrastructure, the regulatory environment, capacity building and implementation of international standards," he said. "Bahrain has a long standing history in aviation spanning back to the early 1920s. By coincidence, January 21st marks the 40th anniversary of Concorde’s maiden flight to Bahrain, and we are also proud to be commemorating the 200th anniversary of Bahrain- British relations during this show." The minister thanked all the organizers, partners and sponsors of BIAS 2016 and wished them success in this fourth