Bahrain, China deal to elevate construction standards, urban development

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

Report by Mohammed Darwish

Smart construction measures, world class security and safety measures, energy efficient building materials and more. Yes, you heard it right.

The social housing sector in the Kingdom is on the brink of a transformative leap. Bolstering this monumental shift is a strategic partnership deal signed by the Kingdom with China.

This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in Bahrain’s efforts to elevate its social housing sector, promising a future of enhanced living standards and robust urban development.

Amna Al Rumaihi, the Minister of Housing and Urban Planning, said the agreement signed yesterday with China is set to propel the sector forward.

This collaboration promises to infuse the Kingdom’s housing initiatives with modern security standards and Chinese technical and engineering expertise.

Minister Al Rumaihi, currently on an official visit to China, said the project aligns with China’s ambitious “Belt and Road” initiative.The agreement encompasses the redevelopment of old residential areas, the management of residential communities, and the regulation of the real estate market.

The partnership aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation, allowing Bahrain to leverage China’s leading expertise in housing.

Minister said the initiative supports its objectives to enhance housing service mechanisms, project management, and post-occupancy support for citizens.

Following the deal signing, Mr. Ni Hong, the Chinese Minister, expressed his enthusiasm for Bahrain’s urban development, particularly in the social housing sector.

He reiterated China’s commitment to deepening cooperation and facilitating exchange visits to enrich housing policies in both nations.

Extensive meetings were held between the two sides to explore further avenues of collaboration in the social housing sector.

Al Rumaihi said the Bahraini delegation showcased key initiatives and programmes of the Ministry, along with promising investment opportunities for real estate developers through the government’s land development rights programme in partnership with the private sector.

According to the United Nations, Bahrain stands out globally for its extensive social housing programs, which have successfully served a large portion of its citizens.

Since the Ministry of Housing’s establishment in the 1970s, the government has delivered nearly 130,000 housing services.

In recent years, these social programs have significantly expanded with increased budget allocations, reaching unprecedented levels of coverage.