Minister: BIDEC Bahrain's renewed success story

Manama, Oct. 27 (BNA): Information Affairs Minister, Ali bin Mohammed Al-Romaihi, has praised the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Supreme Commander, of the second edition of the Bahrain International Defence Exhibition and Conference (BIDEC 2019). He stressed that the major world event reflects the kingdom’s prestigious status in the field of defence and strategic exhibitions and conferences industry, and strengthens its leading role as a pivotal partner in maintaining regional and global peace and security. While visiting the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre to be informed about the latest preparations and the media and technical equipment at the Media Centre, Al-Romaihi highlighted the kingdom’s readiness to host the global event thanks to the direct follow-up of the National Security Advisor, Royal Guard Commander and Chairman of the High Organising Committee of BIDEC, Major-General HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, as well as the concerted national efforts to provide all technical, technological and logistical services to ensure the success of the event which witnesses a wide international participation of senior officials and showcases the latest defence technology and equipment for more than 200 companies from 60 countries. The minister explained that the diversity of international participation in BIDEC 2019, two years after the huge success of the first edition and in light of the challenges and security threats to the region and the world, is of great importance in supporting the strategy of development and modernisation of the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF). Al-Romaihi asserted that thanks to the constant support of HM the King, the BDF continues its development in order to reach the highest levels of readiness and combat efficiency, stressing the BDF’s historical honourable role in defending the homeland’s security, stability and sovereignty, protecting its development and civilisational gains, and safeguarding the national, GCC and Arab security, in addition to its commitment to supporting joint international efforts to maintain global peace and security. He highlighted the keenness of the Information Affairs Ministry, in coordination with the National Communication Centre and in cooperation with the High Organising Committee, to provide the necessary media and technical facilities to enable local, regional and international media to cover BIDEC and the accompanying Middle East Military Technology Conference (MEMTEC). The minister added that the positive organisational and cultural atmosphere and constructive interactive dialogues will be covered through radio and television programmes and specialised news reports, according to a comprehensive media plan to inform the local and international public about the latest innovations and developments in the military and defence (land, sea and air) affairs. Al-Romaihi affirmed that Bahrain’s hosting of BIDEC 2019 a few days after the Warsaw Process Working Group on Maritime and Aviation Security is a success story and a new international recognition of the distinction of the kingdom, under HM King Hamad’s leadership, regarding its wise diplomatic approach, outstanding organisational atmosphere and defence strategy calling for activating international alliances to consolidate security, peace and stability, transfer expertise, attract the latest security and military technology in fighting terrorism and extremist organisations, combat cybercrimes, as well as ensure the safety of maritime corridors and the security of energy supplies to the global economy, which, he said, serves the Sustainable Development Agenda 2030 aimed at establishing secure, pacifist and developed communities.