Bahrain lost a great statesman: MPs

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahraini lawmakers yesterday paid tribute to His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa hailing him as a statesman with a clear and integrated political and social vision.

“Bahrain has lost a statesman with a clear and integrated political and social vision,” parliamentarians said in a statement on the passing away of HRH Prince Khalifa.

The statement hailed HRH Prince Khalifa as a person “invariably keen on regular communication and open contact with citizens.”

Parliamentarians said the achievements and legacy of Prince Khalifa would always be recalled with pride in Bahrain’s history.

“He was a father to all Bahrainis, always asking about their families and conditions. He was also keen on meeting members of parliament and discussing them local matters and ways to enhance their role within the community,” Representative Ali Al Zayed said.

“He possessed a clear and integrated political and social vision that helped him with developing Bahrain under the leadership of HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, in health, economic, education, banking and other areas.”

Abdullah Al Thawadi said that Bahrain lost “a humanitarian and leadership figure who de- voted himself to serving Bahrain for decades.”

“With him, Bahrain witnessed numerous developmental achievements, and he considered Bahrainis as the true assets and wealth of the country,” he said.

“HRH Prince Khalifa was keen to serve humanity locally and globally, and he always directed ministers and officials to adopt an open-door policy with citizens, to look at the needs, to visit their villages and cities, and to listen to them attentively.”

Ibrahim Al Nafie said that the passing of His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa is painful news for Bahrainis and people of the Arabian Gulf and the world.

“His Royal Highness was keen for Bahrain to be in the top ranks of civilized countries, and this is what happened by the grace of God and HRH’s determination,” he said.