His Majesty King Hamad outlined a clear roadmap for Bahrain’s future, grounded in national identity, economic diversification and global engagement yesterday.
He was speaking as he inaugurated the fourth session of the sixth legislative term of the National Assembly at the Isa Cultural Centre, in the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
Upon the arrival of the King’s convoy, accompanied by a mounted police escort, His Majesty was received by National Assembly and Parliament Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam and Shura Council Chairman Ali Saleh Al Saleh.
The national anthem was then played, and the King proceeded to the main conference hall of the centre, where the ceremony began with a recitation from the Holy Quran.
Speaking to a joint session of the Shura Council and Parliament, the King praised the legislative authority’s performance, emphasising its role in upholding Bahrain’s Islamic and constitutional values, rooted in Sharia, consultation, justice and tradition.
“These noble principles continue to be a way of life for us and an inseparable part of our culture, which safeguards our sovereignty,” he said, stressing that Bahrain’s governance legacy is a continuation of the vision set by the kingdom’s forefathers.
His Majesty’s speech served as a national directive, identifying key policy priorities for the coming legislative session:
1. Safeguarding National Identity and Unity: The King emphasised the importance of moral values and authentic practices, urging the rejection of fanaticism, hatred and external loyalties. He called for unity across all components of Bahraini society and the protection of the kingdom’s unique identity.
2. Knowledge-Based Development and Economic Diversification: Bahrain’s path forward, the King stated, lay in investing in science, technology and industrial innovation. Artificial intelligence, renewable energy and even space exploration were named as strategic sectors for growth.
3. Environmental Sustainability and Heritage Preservation: The King urged protection of natural and agricultural resources, particularly marine life and the historic pearl trade, which he called a “global symbol of Bahrain’s legacy”.
4. Empowerment of Bahraini Youth: Special attention was given to the role of young Bahrainis in shaping the nation’s future, with praise for the successful launch of a Bahraini satellite and the ongoing efforts of his representative for humanitarian work and youth affairs Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa in championing youth talent.
“These young individuals underline their readiness to contribute to leading both the present and the future,” said the King.
Among the legislative highlights, His Majesty commended the near-completion of amendments to the Press, Printing, and Publishing Law, calling it a “vital step” that upholds the constitutional principle of freedom of opinion and expression.
“It enhances the esteemed standing of our national media in all its forms,” he said, reflecting Bahrain’s continued commitment to a free and responsible Press environment.
The King also praised a new national employment initiative announced by HRH Prince Salman, which offers expanded job opportunities for young Bahrainis.
“We look forward to maximising the benefits of this initiative,” he said, thanking the Bahrain Chamber and all supporting businesses.
“This initiative aligns with the broader push to increase national participation in the labour market and support Bahraini citizens with meaningful, sustainable employment.”
On foreign policy, the King reaffirmed Bahrain’s commitment to a just and comprehensive peace in the region, with particular emphasis on ending the war in Gaza and advancing the Palestinian cause.
“The Palestinian issue will remain at the forefront of the kingdom’s priorities during its non-permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council,” he said.
His Majesty commended international mediation efforts, specifically praising the “historic role” of US President Donald Trump in facilitating peace efforts, and reiterated Bahrain’s support for a two-state solution that ensures the rights and dignity of the Palestinian people.
His Majesty paid tribute to Bahrain’s defence and security forces, underscoring their role as a pillar of national development and sovereignty.
“We are keen that they be equipped with the latest capabilities and highest levels of skill,” he said, offering special thanks to BDF Commander-in-Chief Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa and the armed forces.
In closing, the King described the Bahraini citizen as the kingdom’s greatest wealth, reaffirming his unwavering commitment to ensuring the prosperity, well-being and dignity of every citizen.
“They have made Bahrain a beacon of goodwill and peace, and a centre for creativity and leadership,” he said.
“We must always place the well-being and entitlement of Bahrain’s citizens at the forefront of our priorities.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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