Premier: Citizens' rights top priority

Manama, July 9 (BNA): His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa stressed the government’s keenness to ensure citizens’ rights remain protected when reaching a consensual formula between the executive and legislative branches regarding the budget. He pointed out directives to rationalise expenditure of ministries and government institutions without affecting citizens’ living standard and rights, stressing the need to go ahead with development projects aimed at boosting citizens’ welfare. HRH the Premier was speaking as he received at Gudaibiya Palace today Representatives Council Speaker Ahmed bin Ibrahim Al Malla, Shura Council Chaiman Ali bin Saleh Al Saleh and Heads of the Financial and Economic Affairs Committee in both councils. He underscored the social aspect as a cornerstone of the general budget and the financial policies, in general, stressing the need to maintain social care programmes and continue providing support for social components most in need. HRH the Prime Minister affirmed the royal directives to preserve citizens’ interests and cater for their needs, pointing out that the government prepared the general budget to achieve set up goals despite all challenges. He praised cooperation between the executive and legislative branches on a draft law to endorse the general budget for the fiscal years 2017-2018, stressing that common efforts is the main guarantee to ensure the new budget plays a pivotal role in implementing endorsed fiscal policies and providing the needed funding for pioneering citizen-oriented development projects. HRH the Prime Minister reviewed progress of discussion between the legislative and executive branches regarding the budget, asserting the government’s readiness and keenness to answer any queries concerning that. He also underlined the need for concerted efforts to achieve utmost competency in dealing with the current global economic developments and the sharp decline in oil prices. He pointed out the importance of policies and programmes to tackle those issues by rationalising expenditure, diversifying revenues and boosting competitiveness of the national economy. The Shura and Representatives Councils Chairmen extended heartfelt thanks and gratitude to HRH the Premier for his constant support and keenness to promote cooperation between the executive and legislative branches, describing his valuable directives as a roadmap to achieve further progress and prosperity. AOQ