Bahrain; Canada hold first consultation meeting

Manama, Feb.3 (BNA): Foreign Ministry Undersecretary forForeign Affairs for International Affairs, Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, chaired the first bilateral consultation meeting between the Kingdom of Bahrain and Canada via video conference. The Canadian side was chaired by the Assistant Deputy Minister for Europe, Arctic, Middle East and Maghreb at Global Affairs Canada, Ambassador Sandra McCardell. Dr. Shaikh Abdullah hailed the close relations between the Kingdom of Bahrain and friendly Canada, and the mutual desire to develop areas of cooperation at all levels. He commended Canada's positions in support of protecting international peace and security, and its active participation in ensuring the security of maritime navigation. He stressed Bahrain's keenness to make unremitting efforts in order to achieve regional stability and to promote international partnerships to combat terrorism in a way that ensures peace and prosperity for the people of the region and the world. He noted that the national economy offers many promising and distinct investment opportunities, in the context of focusing on diversifying the sectors of smart production, entrepreneurship, renewable energy and digital technology, in line with Bahrain Economic Vision 2030. He said that Bahrain pays special attention to environmental protection, noting that the Kingdom is at the forefront of the world countries that adhere to international conventions and agreements,. He cited in this regard to the appointment of a special envoy for climate affairs, and the efforts and initiatives of the Supreme Council for Environment, to ensure balance and environmental integration. Dr. Shaikh Abdullah reviewed the comprehensive measures taken by the Kingdom of Bahrain to confront the repercussions of the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, stressing the importance of developing joint cooperation in the health field, and promoting the role of scientific research centres. For her part, Ambassador McCardell expressed Canada's aspiration to develop relations with Bahrain in all fields, lauding the leading and responsible role of the Kingdom in consolidating the foundations of peace in the Middle East. She also praised the fruitful results of the round of consultations in terms of strengthening cooperation between the two friendly countries, wishing Bahrain further development. The meeting also discussed ways to support and develop aspects of bilateral cooperation and joint coordination on various issues of common concern.