Foreign Ministry's Undersecretary chairs Bahraini-Belgian political consultations meeting

Manama, Nov. 24 (BNA): The Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for International Affairs, Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, headed the delegation of the Kingdom of Bahrain during the third meeting of political consultations between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Kingdom of Belgium, which was held today at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Manama. The Belgian delegation was headed by the Director-General of Bilateral Affairs at the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Anick Van Calster. Dr. Shaikh Abdullah highlighted the developing distinctive relations between the two countries, noting the promising possibilities for their development at all levels. The meeting reviewed means of bolstering bilateral relations and developing joint cooperation. The two sides exchanged views on regional and international developments and issues of common interest as well as combating extremism and terrorism. Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa pointed out to the success of Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 in diversifying sources of income and attracting quality investments, adding that there are many investment opportunities through which economic cooperation between the two friendly kingdoms can be increased. In this regard, he referred the Bahraini-Belgian Business Forum, which was held in Brussels in May 2018. The Undersecretary for International Affairs stressed the need for concerted international efforts to combat and condemn terrorism in accordance with the provisions of the Charter of the United Nations and international law, in addition to working to ensure maritime security and freedom of international trade. Dr. Shaikh Abdullah stated that the Kingdom has received international recognition for its values of tolerance, respect of religious freedoms, women's partnership and sustainable and human development. He stressed the Kingdom’s pride in its of values openness, tolerance and coexistence which are supported by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. Director General of Bilateral Relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Belgium stressed that the Kingdom of Bahrain is an important partner in the Middle East, praising the friendly relations and cooperation between the two countries and the advanced level reached in many fields, wishing the Kingdom of Bahrain continued progress and prosperity.