Manama: The Deputy Prime Minister, His Excellency Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, chaired the weekly Cabinet Meeting at Gudaibiya Palace, focusing on a range of significant national and regional topics.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the Cabinet extended its congratulations to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for receiving the Leader Medal, the highest honor awarded by the Arab Parliament. This recognition highlights His Majesty's efforts in promoting Arab interests and fostering joint Arab action. The Cabinet also praised HM the King's role in enhancing Arab cooperation through initiatives that benefit Arab nations and their citizens.
The Cabinet emphasized the importance of HM the King's upcoming state visit to the Sultanate of Oman, where he will meet with His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al-Said. Discussions noted the strong ties between Bahrain and Oman across multiple sectors. Additionally, the Cabinet celebrated Bahrain's achievements in regional and international sports, acknowledging the support of HM the King. The financial rewards offered by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa to the Bahrain National Football Team, following their victory at the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup, were also recognized.
The Cabinet discussed the need for collaboration between the Ministry of Labour and the Ministry of Social Development, as directed by HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. This collaboration aims to assist violators of the Khatwa Programme, whose retirement pensions were suspended, in receiving unemployment benefits and potential support services. The Cabinet underscored the achievements of Bahraini women, particularly in entrepreneurship, and highlighted the Global Women Economic Forum held in Bahrain under the patronage of HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa.
Further, the Cabinet reviewed the outcomes of the joint government-parliament meeting, focusing on the implementation of the government programme (2023-2026) and emphasized the importance of dialogue between the Executive and Legislative Authorities. Infrastructure projects, including the Muharraq Ring Road and the Amakin-Pearls initiative, were highlighted as part of ongoing urban development and economic growth.
The Cabinet celebrated the recognition of the Capital Governorate as a "Healthy Governorate" by the World Health Organisation (WHO), the first in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, and highlighted Bahrain's diplomatic achievements on Bahrain Diplomatic Day. Congratulations were extended to HE Joseph Aoun, the newly elected President of Lebanon, and condolences were offered to the United States and China for recent tragedies.
Several memorandums were discussed and approved, including those related to employment contracts, advertisement regulations, fishing restrictions, and property acquisition for urban development. The Cabinet also reviewed labor market indicators for 2024, noting the creation of 27,147 jobs for Bahrainis and the training of 19,859 citizens, surpassing targets set under the Economic Recovery Plan.
Ministerial reports included the outcomes of the Minister of Foreign Affairs' visit to Syria and Bahrain's participation in various regional meetings and conferences, highlighting the Kingdom's commitment to technical and vocational education and regional cooperation.