No Halloween party plans, clarifies BACA

Manama : Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA) said they had not announced any Halloween parties, adding that the advertisements of the event were from private companies, for which the Authority is not responsible.

Commenting on the reports published by the media on their coverage of the recent Council of Representatives meeting on Tuesday, BACA renounced the remarks made by an MP, pointing out that it included many inaccuracies and errors.

BACA explained that the constitution of the Kingdom’s provisions of article 7(a) confirms that the country shall promote Science, Literature and Arts and that Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 will remain a home to rich ancient culture and sustainable natural environment.

BACA confirmed that based on this, their strategic plans of establishing cultural events and activities are devised through the initiative adopted years ago called ‘Invest in Culture’. 

It involves building strategic partnerships with the private sector to support the cultural landscape in Bahrain by financing construction projects and renewable programmes revolving around festivals, exhibitions, and other cultural activities.

The private sector that supports the cultural scene in Bahrain contributed US$100 million during the past years and still continues its partnership with the BACA in supporting concerts and events. 

“These events are sponsored by private companies, especially in the last two years and are not under government funding,” the Authority said. “The work of the BACA is similar in respects to activating tourism in Bahrain by attaining international performances and concerts to attract tourists and diversify the economy, especially in the current economic conditions.” 

“Endeavours must be made to develop financial resources through investment in culture and tourism, which diversify income sources, attract visitors and promote the host country,” BACA added.