THE Shura Council last night signalled a new phase of ambitious national priorities spanning Press freedom, youth employment, digital transformation and regional diplomacy.
The ceremonial session focused on His Majesty King Hamad’s address earlier inaugurating the fourth session of the National Assembly’s sixth legislative term.
Shura Council Chairman Ali Saleh Al Saleh expressed gratitude for the King’s unwavering support of Bahrain’s democratic institutions and highlighted the chamber’s determination to uphold its constitutional responsibilities with “renewed energy and national commitment.
“We consider His Majesty’s royal trust and support a noble mandate – one that drives us to advance legislation that aligns with Bahrain’s Vision 2030 and prepares us for the opportunities and challenges of Vision 2050,” he said.
One of the legislative highlights to be tackled during the new session would be the Press, Printing and Publishing Law.
“We will give this legislation the deep and inclusive debate it deserves as it is a major step toward enhancing responsible freedom of opinion and expression,” said Mr Al Saleh.
Praising the government’s latest employment initiative, which guarantees three opportunities for every registered job-seeker, he underscored the Shura Council’s support for policies that promote youth inclusion, innovation and private sector collaboration.
He also commended the efforts of the Bahrain Chamber and private companies that are stepping up to support this national goal.
Mr Al Saleh emphasised that artificial intelligence, renewable energy and digital transformation would play key roles in the council’s work.
Investments in space science, such as the launch of Bahrain’s satellite Al Munther, were hailed as milestones of national innovation.
He echoed the King’s call to protect national identity and social unity, stressing the importance of promoting tolerance, rejecting extremism and preserving Bahrain’s rich cultural heritage.
“Our identity is not just a legacy, it is a shield that protects our sovereignty and values in a fast-changing world,” he stated.
Addressing regional affairs, Mr Al Saleh reaffirmed Bahrain’s firm stance on the Palestinian cause, especially in light of the ceasefire recently brokered in Gaza.
“We welcome the agreement to end the war in Gaza and reiterate our full support for a two-state solution, for the restoration of the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people and lasting peace in the region.”
He praised the “heroic resilience” of the Palestinian people and noted growing international recognition of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Mr Al Saleh expressed confidence that the Shura Council – in co-ordination with Parliament, the government, and all state institutions – will continue to serve the people of Bahrain faithfully.
“We renew our allegiance to the King and reaffirm our duty to serve the citizens of this nation. Our work will continue to reflect the democratic spirit, constitutional values and development vision of the kingdom,” he said.
The session concluded with a renewed pledge from all members to safeguard Bahrain’s achievements and chart a future defined by stability, innovation, and inclusive growth.
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