Manama: During the Diplomatic Forum organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Bahrain Diplomatic Day, the third day began with a session entitled "Bahrain and Sustainability: An Economic and Environmental Vision to Achieve a Sustainable Future". The session was moderated by Ambassador Nasser Al Balooshi, Bahrain's Ambassador to Italy, who emphasized that Bahrain is moving confidently towards sustainable development. This vision is inspired by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and supported by the government led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, aiming to ensure the welfare of citizens while preserving resources for future generations.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Khalid Al Marzouqi, Projects Advisor at the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, highlighted strategies promoting sustainability in the industrial and commercial sectors. He pointed to initiatives like Sijilat and the Trader application, which facilitate easier business operations for entrepreneurs. Al Marzouqi also discussed the Industrial Sector Strategy (2022 - 2026), which supports transformation towards the Fourth Industrial Revolution and smart factories, alongside leveraging free trade agreements to boost Bahraini commercial activity internationally.
Laila Ali Sabil, Director of the Climate Change and Sustainable Development Department at the Ministry of Oil and Environment, defined sustainability as balancing resource consumption while ensuring their availability for future generations. She reviewed Bahrain's efforts towards carbon neutrality, stressing the importance of exploring alternative energy sources like solar and wind, despite technological and logistical challenges.
Futoon Al Emadi, Director of the Communication and International Relations Department at the Ministry of Sustainable Development, highlighted the crucial role of diplomacy in achieving Sustainable Development Goals. She pointed to international cooperation for promoting innovation and attracting global best practices, emphasizing the need for accurate data to assess progress.
Dana Al Shammasi, Director of the Financial Sustainability Department, discussed efforts to reduce reliance on oil revenues through the fiscal balance program. She emphasized strategies for developing non-oil sectors such as logistics and information technology and highlighted the significance of private sector partnerships in enhancing financial resources and achieving economic sustainability.
The session concluded with discussions on the challenges Bahrain faces in achieving sustainability goals, underscoring diplomacy's essential role in fostering international cooperation, attracting investments, and positioning Bahrain as a leader in development experiences and innovative projects.