Preparations for BIAS 2018 reviewed

Manama, Feb. 27 (BNA): Personal Representative of His Majesty the King and Head of the High Organising Committee of Bahrain International Air Show (BIAS) Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa praised success of the fair’s previous editions in boosting the kingdom’s status as home to the air shows industry thanks to the unlimited support, valuable directives and farsighted vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. Shaikh Abdullah expressed thanks and appreciation to His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier for their support and strategic directives to ensure success of the major event. He was speaking as he chaired at Sakhir Air Base today the first meeting of the organising committee of the show’s fifth edition which will be held under the aegis of His Majesty the King from November 14 to 16.  Shaikh Abdullah praised outstanding cooperation and coordination of the Ministry of Defence and the Royal Bahrain Air Force (RBAF) which helped remove all obstacles and achieve the aspired success in the previous editions. He also lauded the efforts of ministries, public and private institutions and individuals in this respect, pointing out that the experience gained from holding those exhibitions has enhanced the confidence and keenness of international air companies to take part and contribute to the success of the next shows. HM the King’s Personal Representative underlined the growing economic and investment importance of the event and its role in showcasing the latest products in the field of aviation. He also hailed the outstanding participation of brotherly and friendly countries, stressing that changing the date of the show, which will be held from November 14 to 16 at Sakhir Air Base, will further contribute to its success with the participation of more companies. Shaikh Abdullah was received on arrival at Sakhir Air Base by Transportation and Telecommunication Minister Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, members of the organising committee and officials. He listened to a briefing on the ongoing preparations for BIAS as well as plans and programmes to ensure its success.