Scottish ties hailed
Manama : Scottish community’s contribution to Bahrain’s economy and development were hailed yesterday by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.
“The Kingdom of Bahrain has always had an immense respect for the achievements of the United Kingdom,” said His Majesty the King during a reception organised for United Kingdom Ambassador to Bahrain, Simon Martin, and members of the Scottish community in Bahrain at the Sakhir Palace.
HM the King told the Scottish community members that the people of Scotland are renowned for travelling the world to seek new opportunities – and “we are delighted that you are continuing that tradition here in Bahrain.”
His Majesty also thanked them for bringing their expertise and talents to the Kingdom, saying, “I know that for many of you, Bahrain has become their home.”
Highlighting the celebration of Burns Night held recently, HM the King said: “In honour of your renowned national poet, let me promise that in the case of Bahrain and Scotland, ‘old acquaintances’ shall never be forgotten.”
Burns Night, held in honour of Scotland’s most famous poet Robert Burns, is celebrated at the end of January every year. Also known as ‘Rabbie Burns’, he is widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland.
Hailing the unique relationship between the UK and Bahrain, British Ambassador said: “We have so many shared interests and so many shared elements to our history. All of this was so vividly highlighted by the recent celebration of the 200 years of our formal relationship.”
The Ambassador also highlighted the contribution of Bahrain’s Scottish community to the development of oil industry here. “Scots first came to work in Bahrain’s oil industry many decades before the discovery of oil in the North Sea!” he said.
Contributions to Bahrain’s educational system as well as to the sporting areas were highlighted.
Awali Caledonian Society Chieftain, Ewan Reekie, on behalf of the Awali and Manama Caledonian Societies and Scottish communities, thanked His Majesty the King and presented a commemorative gift on behalf of the Scottish community in Bahrain to the King.
Related Posts