HM King Hamad deputises HRH Princess Sabeeka to inaugurate Bahrain Annual Heritage Festival

Manama, April 2 (BNA)-- His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa deputised today Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of HM the King and Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Women, to inaugurate Bahrain Annual Heritage Festival which is organised by the Culture Ministry at Bahrain National Museum till April 9. HRH Princess Sabeeka stressed the importance of holding such specialised festivals in preserving the national heritage as an inherent component of the Bahraini identity and cherishing it with pride and appreciation. She said HM the King's annual patronage of the event, which was launched in 1992, reflects the importance of protecting the cultural heritage for the posterity. She underlined the importance of the festival as an annual national event that aims to revive the popular heritage as well as the Bahraini customs and traditions. She also emphasised the role of such festivals in boosting tourism and supporting the national economy. She praised the efforts of the Culture Ministry, led by Culture Minister Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, in promoting Bahrain's status as a favourable touristic destination by projecting its historical and cultural depth. On her part, the Culture Minister expressed thanks and gratitude to HM the King and HRH Princess Sabeeka for their continuous care and support to the Bahraini heritage. She said the 22nd edition of Bahrain Annual Heritage Festival digs deep in Bahrain's memory regarding textile. The festival, she pointed out, features various activities and functions, including a photo gallery, spotlighting the industry of cloth-making and traditional dresses in Bahrain. A O Q