Premier bats for Arab cooperation

Prime Minister HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa has urged to broaden the scope of economic and trade cooperation between the Arab countries by adopting new formulae that will lead to the emergence of an Arab economic power capable of competing with global economic blocs.

He was speaking yesterday as he received Honorary President of the General Union of Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture for Arab Countries, Adnan Kassar and Secretary General, Dr. Imad Amine Shehab.

The Premier underlined the need for concerted Arab efforts to fast­track economic cooperation and boost pan-Arab relations. He stressed the union's key role in this respect, pointing out the importance of economic growth in bolstering people's welfare.

He said anarchy and destruction in some countries in the region represent a hindrance to economic growth and a major challenge that can be defeated only through full cooperation. He underscored the government's support to the trade sector, stressing its importance for development in Bahrain and the Arab countries.

Mr. Kassar lauded Bahrain's development, commending the support given by the government to the Lebanese community.