HM King returns to Bahrain

Manama, Feb. 1(BNA): His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa returned to Bahrain from Saudi Arabia after attending the opening ceremony of the 31st edition of the National Heritage and Culture Festival, being held by the Saudi National Guard Ministry under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. HM the King was welcomed on arrival by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier. He was earlier seen off in Saudi Arabia by Riyadh Governor His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Bander bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud and Bahrain Ambassador Shaikh Humood bin Abdulla Al-Khalifa. HM the King sent a cable of thanks and appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, paying tribute to the Government and people of Saudi Arabia for the warm welcome and genuine hospitality, which reflects solid bilateral relations. He expressed his delight at participating in the annual festival which, he said, represents a milestone that reflects the Saudi contribution to the progress of the Arab and Islamic civilisation. He wished the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia further progress, prosperity and lasting security, praying to the Almighty to bless the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques with abundant health and happiness .