HRH Premier praises GCC-French rapprochement

Manama, May 6 (BNA): His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa has lauded the GCC-French rapprochement, reflected in the participation of President Francois Hollande in the GCC Consultative Summit, which was held in Riyadh. He was speaking as he received at his palace in Riffa the Board of Directors Chairman of the BNP Paribas Group Jean Lemierre. HRH Premier praised the kingdom's hosting of the regional headquarters of BNP Paribas, one of the leading international banks, which, he said, reflects confidence in the kingdom's economic atmosphere, on the one hand, and the strength of the Bahraini-French relations, on the other. HRH the Prime Minister appreciated the role of BNP Paribas bank in supporting the banking sector in the kingdom, and broadening areas of Bahraini-French cooperation, particularly in the economic, financial and banking fields. HRH Premier praised the distinguished status and reputation of BNP Paribas bank, and its remarkable presence in the regional and international arenas. He highlighted the government's keenness to continue developing legislation, and adopt initiatives that support the financial and banking sector, and contribute to increasing its contributions to the national economy. BNP Paribas Group Board Chairman Jean Lemierre asserted that HRH Premier had boosted confidence in Bahrain's economic atmosphere, which had benefited international banks. He expressed sincere thanks to HRH the Prime Minister for the positive investment atmosphere provided by the government. He praised Bahrain's stimulating economic potentials and characteristics, which, he affirmed, has entitled it to be a platform for investment and banking in the region. He expressed delight and pride in the outstanding financial performance of BNP Paribas in Bahrain thanks to the kingdom's advanced economy and banking.