Information Minister: Bahrain backs Arab Summit resolutions

Manama, March 30 (BNA)-- Information Affairs Minister Isa bin Abdulrahman Al-Hammadi has stressed Bahrain's support to the resolutions of the 26th Arab Summit which concluded in Sharm El-Sheikh yesterday, including the formation of a joint Arab force to face challenges and safeguard Arab security. Speaking at the post-cabinet press conference today, he emphasised the government's keenness to protect citizens' gains, denying any official statement by the government on a fixed date to submit the budget to the legislative authority. Regarding the setting up of a joint Arab military force and the continuation of its participation in the Operation Decisive Storm in Yemen, the minister explained that the Arab Summit's resolutions were clear in this respect and the Arab League Secretary General was tasked to head a high-profile work team to work out practical steps for that at the level of the Arab Chiefs of Staff. The Information Affairs Minister underlined Bahrain's unwavering stance in this regard, pointing out that the kingdom's participation in the alliance force "Decisive Storm" to back legitimacy in Yemen was at a request by Yemeni President Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi. He added that the military operation, as stated by relevant parties, will continue until its goals are attained. The minister affirmed that citizens' interest is top priority for the government, pointing out that its policy in redirecting its subsidies aims to benefit citizens first and foremost. Concerning the media plan of the Information Affairs Authority (IAA) to promote Formula 1 which will be hosted by Bahrain next April, he said that all efforts will be made to ensure maximum benefit from the major sporting event which is being hosted by Bahrain since 2004. The Information Affairs Minister stressed ongoing cooperation between all competent parties to ensure success of the event, urging all mass media in Bahrain to contribute to promoting it. In another context, he emphasised the great importance given to the housing issue to cater for applicants' needs. As for labour accommodation, the minister explained that the issue was raised by the former Representatives Council and various mass media, pointing out that hygienic and safety conditions will be put in place for the new labour accommodation. The Information Affairs Minister stressed that new punishments have been proposed for any violation of the conditions, including a three-month jail term and around BD 2000 fine if the conditions are transgressed for the first time. He added that the punishment will be doubled if the violation is repeated.