Interior Minister and Ministerial Committee for the Follow-up on the National Plan to Promote National Belonging and Reinforce Citizenship Values chairman General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa yesterday visited residents of Muharraq as part of efforts to enhance communication with citizens and strengthen community partnership.
His Majesty King Hamad’s Adviser for Youth and Sports Affairs Saleh Bin Hindi and Muharraq Governor Salman Bin Hindi were present.
Gen Shaikh Rashid conveyed the greetings of His Majesty and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to the residents.
He emphasised that the meeting reflected the approach of the King in advancing communication with all members of society, while ensuring citizens’ security and public safety.
The minister listened to the views and observations of the residents, affirming their commitment to strengthening national belonging, social cohesion and civil peace. He provided clarifications on the points raised during the meeting.
Gen Shaikh Rashid noted that Bahrain had faced many political and security challenges throughout its history, which it overcame with efficiency, positivity and determination, thanks to the leadership of His Majesty and the dedication of loyal citizens.
He recalled key national milestones, including the vote underscoring Bahrain’s Arab identity under the leadership of the late Amir, HH Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, and the National Action Charter, which achieved an unprecedented consensus of 98.4 per cent, marking the launch of the King’s comprehensive development process. He also referred to the events of 2011, stressing that they represented more of an external threat rather than an internal one.
The minister delivering his speech
The minister commended the King’s leadership in strengthening national confidence, noting that Bahraini youth are today experiencing their most prosperous era.
He also discussed economic challenges, underlining the importance of HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister’s directives in overseeing development projects and services for citizens.
He noted the government’s continuous efforts, under HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister’s leadership, to advance 44 priority national programmes covering healthcare, education, employment, investment legislation and financial services.
The minister further highlighted the diversity of Bahrain’s economy, with more than 80 per cent of its sources being non-oil, and reviewed several national success stories, including housing projects carried out during the Silver Jubilee of His Majesty’s reign, which witnessed the development of new housing cities such as East Hidd and Diyar Al Muharraq.
He added that Muharraq had transformed into an attractive investment and tourism hub.
Since the start of the housing programme in 1962, around 70pc of Bahraini families have benefited from housing services.
The minister also noted that Bahrain’s handling of the Covid-19 pandemic represented a distinguished national and international success story, commended by the World Health Organisation (WHO), thanks to the directives of HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
He underlined the government’s adherence to integrity and transparency in all aspects of work, expressing confidence in the country’s future progress based on sound planning, administration and leadership.
Gen Shaikh Rashid with other officials and dignitaries at the event
The minister commended the solidarity and commitment of the residents of Muharraq, describing Muharraq as a beacon of loyalty, belonging and patriotism, affirming its continued allegiance to the King.
He referred to His Majesty’s directive to preserve the historical and cultural identity of Bahrain’s buildings and cities, including the restoration of Shaikh Isa bin Ali House and the development of Muharraq, while maintaining its cultural heritage, as part of the kingdom’s sustainable development goals under Bahrain Economic Vision 2030.
The minister also emphasised the importance of preserving Bahrain’s authentic customs and traditions, which embody noble values and national principles, and highlighted the role of local majlises in safeguarding culture and traditions.
He emphasised the need to maintain their social role, particularly at a time when unity behind the King’s leadership was essential.
The people of Muharraq expressed appreciation to the King for his commitment to reinforcing Bahrain’s national identity and developing Muharraq while preserving its heritage, underscoring their loyalty and pride in the King’s leadership.
They also commended HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister’s dedication to citizens’ well-being and his directives to follow up on development projects in Muharraq.
&uuid=(email))