HRH Premier praises citizens' patriotism, distinction

Manama, May 29 (BNA): His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa has affirmed that the Bahraini people is united and cohesive, stressing that the citizens are close to one another, and have, throughout history, succeeded in thwarting plots against the nation under all circumstances thanks to their cohesion a and unity. HRH Premier lauded Bahrainis' world presence and outstanding success in every field, which has gained the kingdom regional and global honours and recognition. The Prime Minister stressed that officials should assume their responsibilities and listen to the citizens in order to identify their needs and meet them. "In the government, our first and foremost goal is the citizen whose interests are the focus of our attention," the Premier said. HRH Premier made the statements while receiving, at the Gudaibiya Palace today, senior state officials, media, press and culture personnel, businessmen and citizens. HRH the Prime Minister urged everyone to join ranks and to cooperate to maintain the security and stability of the homeland to optimise the hard-won national accomplishments in various fields. "The events and developments in the region surrounding us affirm that security is an essential pre-requisite for progress and prosperity. We have to be resolved, now more than ever, to be committed to our national unity and strengthen it to ensure our country's ability to confront various challenges," he said. HRH Premier asserted that the ultimate goal of the government's programmes and plans is fulfill the citizens' aspirations for a secure present and a prosperous future, stressing that all officials should interact with the citizens and be informed by them directly about their concerns and needs. Referring to the national Press, HRH Premier lauded the patriotic and pioneering role played by journalists in raising national issues and highlighting the citizens' needs within a framework of freedom and openness that embodies Bahrain's advanced democratic strides. He praised the outstanding level of the articles of the Bahraini journalists and columnists, which, he said, reflects the development of the Bahraini national Press. The celebration of the Bahraini Press Day is an opportunity to meet Bahraini journalists and columnists to appreciate them and express pride in the crucial role they are playing in defending the nation, as well as its security and stability. "We are determined to achieve progress and the good for the nation, based on a highly aware and interactive people that seizes every opportunity to take part in building the nation and enhancing its progress," he said. HRH the Prime Minister emphasised that the development and progress boom the kingdom is witnessing at all levels affirms the outstanding ability of Bahrainis to make success despite the serious economic challenges that have affected many countries.