No move to cap expats in Bahrain

Bahrain has no intention of limiting the percentage of expats here to 50, a senior government official said.

During the post-Cabinet press conference held at the Gudaibiya Palace here yesterday, Parliament and Information Affairs Minister Isa bin Abdulrahman Al Hammadi confirmed to DT News that “expats contribute to the progress of the Kingdom of Bahrain on all fields,” adding that they were much valued and appreciated.

Speaking on the information that was reported by some local publications earlier this week, he said:  “This information was leaked to the press and was not referred to the government. It should not be blown up this way.”

“According to the followed norms in this regard, MPs have the right to make law proposals, which would be referred to the government through appropriate channels,” Al Hammadi said.

He also mentioned that the government’s plans to redirect subsidies to only serve citizens are procedures followed by many countries of the world.

“Here in Bahrain, we treat all equally and ensure rights are granted to all,” he added.

The report that was published earlier this week stated that MPs were seeking to limit the number of expats in Bahrain at 50pc of the country’s population.

Meanwhile, a statement released by Secretary-General of the Cabinet Dr Yaser bin Essa Al Nasser following the session said the Cabinet emphasised that the country’s achievements emanated from public consensus and determination, which underpins the nation’s progress and stability.