Food Safety Conference inaugurated in Bahrain

Suad Hamada (Bahrain Beat) / 20 April 2014

The 2nd Food Safety Conference has opened at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre (BIECC). The three-day event is being held on the sidelines of the 4th Health and Wellness Bahrain Expo 2014, which was opened by Health Minister Sadiq bin Abdulkarim Al Shehabi.

Addressing the opening ceremony, the minister stressed the importance of convening such major events to keep abreast of global food safety trends.

 “The issue of food security is of a big concern to citizens and the government”, he said. Citing updated figures, he said that food control inspectors reported 1,650 violations last year.

A total of 62 outlets have been shut down for failing to abide by required health and food safety rules and regulations.

The ministry has launched a series of key initiatives in cooperation with the Bahrain Excellence Centre to promote quality standards and step up safety control procedures to avert any potential food poisoning.

UN Information Centre Director for the GCC countries, Nejib Friji, stressed the need for observing food security and safety regulations in line with the UN goals.

  He commended the Kingdom of Bahrain for hosting such a key international conference.

Key avenue revamped

The Works Ministry has completed the revamping of Al Mazari’a Avenue in Jasra covering 5.7 kilometres, Roads Projects and Maintenance Director at the ministry, Eng. Raed Al Salah has said.

According to Al Salah, the development plan will serve 204 residential units.

The revamping work covered an area from its main intersection in Block 1002 at the North to Zaid bin Omaira Avenue at the South.

“The project comprises re-paving the avenue with a new asphalt layer to prevent rain water from pooling, rectifying the damaged parts of the avenue, signage and painting works,” said Al Salah. “Maintaining Al Mazari’a Avenue will increase its life span from 15-20 years,” he added.

Confucius Institute opens

Under the patronage of the Education Minister Dr Majid bin Ali Al Nuaimi, the student services directorate hosted a concert marking the opening of the Confucius Institute aimed at teaching the Chinese language and culture at the University of Bahrain.

A number of ministry’s officials, affiliates and school students attended the ceremony. 

During the event, an orchestra band by Bahraini students staged a spectaular performance, blending the world orchestra and the traditional Bahraini music.

A performance by a Chinese band reflected the ancient Chinese and modern music genre.

Popular Chinese sports, such as fencing and self-defence also featured during the event.

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