HM King, French President laud strategic bilateral relations

Paris, Apr. 30 (BNA): His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and French President Emmanuel Macron affirmed appreciation of growing strategic relations between Bahrain and France and common keenness on further bolstering them. They stressed that those relations are based on mutual respect, trust, cooperation, common interests and a common history politically, economically, commercially and culturally. This came during a meeting at the Élysée Palace today between HM the King and the French President. HM the King voiced solidarity of the Kingdom of Bahrain with France after the horrible fire which engulfed the historical tower at Notre-Dame cathedral, in Paris. He also expressed regret over losing the religious symbol and historical landmark, describing it as a major loss for all humanity. HM the King thanked the French President for the invitation, praising France's glorious history and rich human and civilisational heritage. He also lauded strong ties binding the two friendly countries and peoples, pointing out their common characteristics and shared noble values of creativity, tolerance and coexistence. Both leaders reviewed progress of bilateral work which underlines keenness to further boost bilateral relations through the signing of many memoranda of understanding and agreements in various fields. They hailed the meetings between Bahraini and French businessmen which yielded many agreements and commercial contracts worth more than $ 2 billion, thus bringing the overall value of current and previous contracts to $ 4.6 billion. They recalled with pride the presence of many French traders in Bahrain in the past, pointing out the French jeweller Jacques Cartier who visited Bahrain early last century and showed a great interest in the kingdom's pearl industry. HM the King underscored the major role played by French archaeologists who have contributed for more than four decades to uncovering the biggest part of Bahrain's archaeological monuments and their old history. Both leaders reviewed regional issues and the future of peace in the Middle East, pointing out common visions that despite all hardships, peace is imminent. They also emphasised the need for concerted efforts to handle current challenges and dangers. Discussions also showed an agreement on the importance of sustainable stability in the Arabian Gulf which requires the Gulf countries and their allies a firm action against terrorism and all forms of interference in countries' affairs. Both leaders also stressed the need to respect the countries' independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity in order to serve international peace and security. HM the King affirmed that Bahrain has always been a model in progress, reform, openness, tolerance, coexistence and pluralism. He underscored the kingdom's unwavering commitment to working with its partners, including France, to promote tolerance and rapprochement between all peoples. He also expressed the kingdom's resolve to continue the path of development and achievements to achieve the aspirations of the Bahraini people. HM the King reiterated thanks and respect to the French President for the gracious welcome and hospitality, wishing France more progress and prosperity.