Bahrain's achievements have consolidated its international status

Manama, Sep. 14 (BNA): Bahrain on Thursday joins the world's nations in celebrating the International Day of Democracy. The 2016 edition is being held this year under the theme “Democracy and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”. Information Affairs Minister Ali bin Mohammed Al-Romaihi hailed Bahrain’s democratic strides ever since His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa launched the landmark reform process. “The reform project has ushered in a new phase of development and progress”, he said, paying tribute to HM the King for his enlightened vision to promote democracy, bolster the rule of the law and push developments efforts forward. Al-Romaihi, also Bahrain Institute for Political Development (BIPD) board of trustees’ Chairman, underlined Bahrain’s success in consolidating its regional and international standing thanks to its development strides. He described Bahrain as one of the most achieving countries as per the international development indicators, stressing the importance of reform and democracy as pillars of any sustainable development work focused on human beings to ensure their decent living standards, rights and liberties. He underlined the mission of the think tank since its inception to promote democratic practices, raise individuals’ political awareness, disseminate the culture of democracy and strengthen political participation. He underlined the key role of the BIPD to achieve HM the King’s vision, enhance political awareness, foster the culture of democracy and promote political awareness through training programmes and functions that target different social segments. The minister stressed the significance of the 2016 theme which, he said, highlights the importance of pushing sustainable development efforts forward. “Led by HM the King, Bahrain has succeeded in projecting a balanced model, embracing democratic and development reforms while taking into account the nature of its society and national heritage”, he said. He reiterated Bahrain’s commitment to international obligations and firm keenness on building on achievements and consolidating gains towards supporting its democratic process.