Premier opens GIF 2018, stresses support for industrial sector

Manama, Feb. 6 (BNA): His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa has asserted that Bahrain’s national industrial products and those of the other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are capable of competing at international markets, and therefore, their marketing and promotion have become necessary. HRH Premier highlighted his keen interest in patronising and supporting specialised exhibitions, given their role in promoting and projecting to the world the advanced level of Bahraini and GCC industrial products, as well as in strengthening consumers’ confidence in them, reiterating the government’s full-fledged support for industrial companies, being among the main pillars of the national economy.  HRH the Prime Minister made the statements while patronising, at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre (BIECC), the opening of the 11th edition of the Gulf Industry Fair (GIF 2018).  The three-day event, organised by Hilal Conferences and Exhibitions (HCE), attracted local and foreign exhibitors.  HRH Premier toured the fair, and was informed about the showcased advanced technology in the fields of aluminum, solar power, environment protection, industrial minerals, logistics, industrial facilities, safety and security and industrial training. The Prime Minister expressed admiration for the cutting-edge industrial technology showcased in the exhibition from around the world, which, he said, confirms the increasing popularity of the event and the high-level status it enjoys among exhibitors and participants. HRH Premier affirmed the government’s keenness on integrating economic sectors to make them serve the development process and ensure its sustainability. "The industrial sector is likely to prevail in the future, and for that reason the government has been keen on supporting and encouraging specialised industrial exhibitions for their importance in attracting industrial companies and investments, as well as in building companies," he said.  HRH Premier stressed the government’s support for the expansion of industrial activities, particularly industries that are based on innovation and modern technology, through the provision of the necessary infrastructure, energy resources and qualified Bahraini workforce. The Prime Minister emphasised that robust economies are based on diversified resources, particularly industry which should be given top priority, noting that great nations are remembered for their industries, and for what they have done for the entire humanity, which proves the importance of industry in consolidating countries’ status on the world’s economic map.  "In Bahrain, we are proud of what has been achieved at the level of the industrial sector, and we seek to achieve more," he added. HRH the Prime Minister highlighted the key role played by specialised industrial exhibitions and events in promoting Bahrain’s distinctive features, incentives and advanced industrial infrastructure, as well as in enhancing investment in this regard. HRH Premier expressed sincere thanks to GIF officials for their efforts in ensuring its success. HRH the Prime Minister turned on the "SUN" logo which is powered by the solar energy tree. Hilal Conferences and Exhibitions (HCE)’s Managing Director, Jubran Abdulrahman extended deepest appreciation and gratitude to HRH Premier for his constant support for the fair. He pointed out that industrial companies aim to promote the "Made in Bahrain" logo, shed light on the kingdom’s capabilities and world-level industrial facilities aimed at consolidating the business environment in the country, which, he said, will contribute to attracting international and regional investors.