Preemptive measures taken to maintain security, stability

Manama, June 1 (BNA): Information Minister Isa Abdulrahman Al-Hammadi stressed continuous cooperation between the government and the legislative council within the constitutional framework, concerning the approval of the state's general budget. Speaking at the post- Cabinet press conference, he pointed out the role of available channels, including the parliamentary and Shura Council financial committees, noting that the stage of voting on the budget has not been reached yet but work is still on in this respect. He reiterated Bahrain's condemnation of the terror acts targeting Saudi Arabia which, he said, have nothing to do with the nature of the GCC communities known for their peaceful nature and tolerance. He underscored the importance of security and stability as a prerequisite for growth and prosperity. The minister paid tribute to the Interior Ministry personnel for their efforts and continuous coordination with relevant parties, including the Sunni and Jafari endowments, to maintain security and stability in Bahrain, stressing tolerance and awareness as characteristic features of the Bahraini society. Concerning fishermen being detained in Qatar, the minister said the issue is being handled according to the law and procedures in both countries, lauding the cooperation between both countries in this regard. He underscored the importance of best practices in the public sector in slashing expenditure while maintaining high productivity and optimum services for citizens. Referring to the government's programme to cater for citizens' needs, the minister stressed that work is in full swing to translate His Royal Highness the Prime Minister's directives into reality by providing comprehensive services nationwide. The minister saidsecurity measures taken were preemptive to maintain stability and ensure people's safety. He pointed out that following the criminal act in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia, coordination was made between the Jafari Endowments and the Interior Ministry and there was an agreement on the preemptive steps to be adopted. He also pointed out that preserving the national fundamentals of unity, tolerance and co-existence in Bahrain remains the main goal to which more media programmes will be directed. "Those values are already there but we are looking forward to immunizing the community from wicked calls to undermine the spirit of tolerance and co-existence between all components of the society," the minister emphasised, pointing out the Information Ministry's monitoring role in this regard and calling on mass media and citizens to assume their responsibility.