BAHRAIN is looking forward to a new phase of work and achievement, building on its rich accomplishments as the nation advances in a spirit of solidarity and collective effort, His Majesty King Hamad has said.
The King was speaking after inaugurating the fifth session of the sixth legislative term of the Shura Council and Parliament yesterday.
The ceremony was attended by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
Upon the arrival of the King’s motorcade at the venue, accompanied by a mounted police unit, he was received by Parliament Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam and Shura Council Chairman Ali Saleh Al Saleh.
“Our nation is our foremost priority and its interests are our highest objective,” His Majesty said in his address.
“As you are aware, the region has witnessed increasingly grave developments over recent months, culminating in the treacherous Iranian attacks and interference that targeted the security of nations and their peoples, with no regard for the consequences of these actions or their violation of international norms and laws, the principles of good neighbourliness, and our shared destiny,” he said.
“These actions have also disrupted collective efforts aimed at de-escalation and the restoration of regional security and peace.”
These events have demonstrated that every position comes at a price, and that public opinion in countries subjected to hostile Iranian actions reflects an awareness of the realities on the ground and a determination to uphold justice and strengthen security, the King pointed out.
“The effectiveness of deterrence begins with unity of position and clarity of vision, and is reinforced through serious efforts to achieve genuine peace that shields the region from the dangers of weapons of mass destruction, guarantees freedom of navigation and prevents any threat to the security of waterways, ultimately bringing prosperity and well-being to the region.”
“It is a source of satisfaction and pride for us to acknowledge the commendable role played by the government during this period with a high degree of precision, under the direction and supervision of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister,” he said.
“This has ensured the continued provision of services with the customary efficiency and quality, and progress in restoring matters to their normal course, particularly in economic matters and daily life.
“We reaffirm our confidence in the government’s plans to address the requirements of the current period, achieving a balance between the necessities of stability and the requirements of development.”
His Majesty also thanked defence and security forces for their vigilance, effectiveness and excellence in confronting challenges and threats, as well as protecting the nation and defending its sovereignty.
He said perhaps one of the most important lessons of this period is that Bahrain’s strength is measured not only by the soundness of its institutions, but also by the ability of institutions and individuals to contribute to confronting challenges and transforming them into productive action.
The people of Bahrain have clearly embodied this principle, His Majesty said.
He also expressed gratitude to the UAE for its continued solidarity with Bahrain in times of hardship and prosperity alike.
He also voiced appreciation for GCC states and America for their support.
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