Business-friendly

Manama : Prime Minister HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa has directed Bahraini businessmen to work with their counterparts in Asian countries to make Bahrain a centre in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries for the distribution of Asian products.

HRH the Prime Minister also underlined the government’s keenness on removing all obstacles for businessmen and investors to encourage the launch of joint Bahraini-Asian ventures, especially Bahraini-Thai.

HRH Premier was speaking in a meeting with the Bahraini business delegation taking part in the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) summit in Bangkok yesterday. The Premier urged them to harness Asian countries’ huge potentials to launch strong economic partnerships that support Bahrain’s progress. 

“Southeast Asian nations’ economic successes and their ability to set a global development model constitute a unique experience, which should be emulated,” he said. 

“The huge potentials and resources enjoyed by Asian countries entitle them to be pivotal players in the international arena. We have to extend more bridges of cooperation with them through focusing on projects that support our economy and contribute to generating more job opportunities,” Prince Khalifa explained.

Calling for visits by Bahraini entrepreneurs to Asian countries, he urged them to promote Bahrain’s economic freedom, distinguished status as a leading regional financial hub, and reach trade deals that benefit the national economy.

Prince Khalifa underscored the importance of developing cooperation between the GCC countries and key economic blocs, including Southeast Asian countries. 

HRH Premier emphasised that GCC countries should develop their economic tools and mechanisms to become an economic bloc with more influence in world trade and international decision-making process.

Meanwhile, Bahraini businessmen appreciated the Premier for supporting and encouraging them to set up economic partnership with their counterparts from various countries. 

“HRH Premier’s keenness to stand by businessmen and traders always gives them confidence. He has a thorough modern economic vision that has made Bahrain a role model for progress and development,” they said, adding that they would hold meetings with their Asian counterparts on the sidelines of the ACD summit.