Information Minister: Gulf union crucial to stave off challenges

Manama, May 20 (BNA): Bahrain has succeeded in overcoming the 2011 events thanks to its visionary and wise political leadership, said Information Affairs Minister Ali bin Mohammed Al-Rumaihi. He commended citizens for their commitment to the democratic process and constitutional legitimacy, renunciation of sectarian mongering and rejection of blatant external interference in Bahrain’s internal affairs. In an exclusive interview with Al-Sharq Al-Awsat Arabic newspaper, he said that the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry (BICI) recommendations have been fully implemented in compliance with the international standards. He underlined Bahrain’s further strides with the implementation of all other voluntary obligations set by the UN Human Rights Council. Al-Rumaihi commended the honourable stance of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states in support of Bahrain’s security, stability and development. He stressed the need to move from the phase of Gulf cooperation to that of full-fledged union so as to have more leverage and withstand all denting challenges. He hailed the pivotal standing of Saudi Arabia, the heart of the Islamic World and the pillar of regional security and stability, citing its crucial role in leading firmly the Arab and Islamic Alliance to protect the legitimate government in Yemen and combat terrorist and extremist organizations. "Bahrain has embarked on a marked democratic process ever since the National Action Charter was endorsed by a sweeping popular majority in 2001. The reform project which was initiated by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa laid the foundations for the modern state of law and institutions, he said. He underlined Bahrain’s landmark strides ever since, citing respect of human rights, freedom of expression and political participation. He said that the media in Bahrain has the potential to develop and thrive in light of constitutional and legislative guarantees, stressing the need, however, to further bolster the role of this vital sector so as it could play its crucial role in anchoring common national values.