Crown Prince: Competitiveness and innovation drive sustainable economic growth

Manama, June 12 (BNA): His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister this evening visited the Majlis of His Excellency Khalifa bin Ahmed Al-Dhahrani, and the Majlis of the Kanoo Family. During the majlis visits, His Royal Highness highlighted that the Kingdom, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad, has increased competitiveness in a range of sectors, which has led to increased economic growth. In this regard, His Royal Highness further highlighted that Bahrain has actively sought to encourage competitiveness to increase economic productivity, and to make innovation and creativity the main drivers of economic development. His Royal Highness noted that the sophisticated legislation and modern regulatory framework in Bahrain, which continues to develop with the cooperation of the Executive Authority, led by His Royal Highness the Prime Minister, and the Legislative Authority, forms the foundation of the next phase of economic development and openness. His Royal Highness went on to exchange Ramadan greetings with the majlis attendees, noting that the holy month of Ramadan represents compassion and unity among the community, and is representative of Bahraini customs and traditions. The Crown Prince then spoke of the current economic challenges faced within the region and across the world, and highlighted the importance of strengthening and developing the role of non-oil sectors and diversifying the Kingdom’s economic portfolio to support long-term growth. His Royal Highness added that Bahrain has taken the appropriate significant steps in this regard, and that there must be collaboration amongst all to further strengthen economic diversification. His Royal Highness further highlighted that the Kingdom’s support to innovation and creativity within the non-oil sectors will contribute to raising Bahrain’s long-term economic competitiveness. His Royal Highness added that the aspiration of government and citizens to achieve further GCC integration is based on a strong history of solidarity and collaboration across various issues. In this regard, His Royal Highness noted the steps taken to unify economic development policies between GCC countries. For their part, the attendees of the majlises expressed their gratitude for His Royal Highness’ visit, and noted that Bahrain’s sustainable economic plan, which is supported by His Royal Highness, will build a stronger economy based on sustainable development goals. His Highness Shaikh Mohamed bin Salman Al Khalifa, son of His Royal Highness, accompanied the Crown Prince during his visits.