His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, today chaired the weekly Cabinet Meeting at Gudaibiya Palace, attended by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

HM the King welcomed Arab leaders to the 33rth Arab Summit to be held in the kingdom of Bahrain on May 16 under the presidency of HM the King.

His Majesty the King expressed hope for the summit’s success, in yielding fruitful outcomes and decisions that would strengthen Arab unity, enhance the region’s political and economic capabilities, ensure national security, and fulfil the aspirations of the Arab people for progress and sustainable development. His Majesty also expressed hope that the outcomes of the summit would promote peace, security, and stability in the region.

HM King Hamad emphasised the importance of holding the summit in the Kingdom of Bahrain at a critical stage in which the region is facing rapid development of events that necessitate continuous consultation and coordination to achieve a unified stance and overcome the challenges facing the Arab world.

The meeting discussed the preparations and arrangements to host the Arab Summit. In this regard, His Majesty the King expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and all concerned parties, to prepare and organise the summit, whilst providing all the required facilities to the country’s guests.

HM King Hamad emphasised that the determination of the people of Bahrain to reach the highest levels of achievements in all fields is a source of immense pride. His Majesty added that Bahraini youth have accomplished remarkable success in various forums, which reflects their unwavering commitment and dedication to their nation.

Furthermore, HM the King asserted that the escalating events in the Gaza Strip underscore the pressing need to intensify diplomatic efforts by all regional and international actors to achieve peace and establish a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. His Majesty stressed the importance of reducing tensions in the Middle East, avoiding military escalation, and strengthening Arab and international cooperation to achieve just, comprehensive, sustainable, and peaceful solutions to conflicts in the region.

HM King Hamad expressed his pride in Bahrain’s inclusivity and unity, affirming that the kingdom will continue its humanitarian approach of promoting tolerance and proximity between peoples, so that it remains, a hub of peace, security, and prosperity.

HM King Hamad emphasised the importance of continuing to advance the progress of key development projects that support economic growth and provide opportunities for the people of the country. His Majesty lauded the efforts of HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and his leadership of government work, which contributes to enriching the comprehensive development process.

HM the King reiterated the importance of cooperation between the executive and legislative authorities to support the goals of the comprehensive development process, emphasising that Bahraini citizens are the main pillar for its success.

HM King Hamad affirmed the need to continue the process of development and modernisation in various fields, and to adopt initiatives that preserve the environment, enhance food security, and support national products.

Moreover, the Cabinet welcomed the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolution adopted by a majority vote of 143, regarding Palestine’s right to obtain full membership in the United Nations and its recommendation that the Security Council reconsiders the matter favourably and to grant Palestine additional rights and privileges related to its status in the international organisation. The Cabinet valued the efforts of the Arab Group, led by the United Arab Emirates, in presenting and adopting this resolution during the Tenth Emergency Special Session of the General Assembly.

For his part, HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, expressed, on behalf of himself and the government, gratitude to HM the King for his appreciation of the efforts of all members of Team Bahrain.

HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister affirmed that the appreciation of HM the King was a source of pride that places the responsibility on everyone to continue efforts to implement the visions of His Majesty the King.

HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister highlighted the commitment of the ministries and government agencies to exerting all necessary efforts to ensure the success of the 33rd Arab Summit, emphasising the government’s honour to implement the directives of HM the King to bolster Bahrain’s position and strengthen the joint Arab action.

BNA