(BNA – Dec. 16) Manama: His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa stressed Bahrain’s readiness for the announcement of the Gulf Union as a means to affirm the nation’s steady willingness and robust determination.

HM the King in a speech to the nation as it celebrates its National Days said that he was looking forward to the call to hold the special Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) summit to announce the Union.

HM King Hamad said that he and Their Majesties and Highnesses the leaders of the GCC discussed the subject of moving from the phase of cooperation to the phase of the union, and that they agreed to continue to work hard in this regard.

Bahrain on Monday and Tuesday is celebrating the anniversary of the establishment of the modern state of Bahrain as an Arab and Muslim country in 1783 by its founder Ahmed Al Fateh, the 42nd anniversary of joining the United Nations as a full member and the 14th anniversary of HM’s Accession to the Throne,

Text of HM the King’s address:

In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent the Most Merciful,

Praise be to Allah, and peace be upon his Messenger Prophet Muhammad and his family and companions.

Your Highnesses and Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Today we celebrate the anniversary of Bahrain as an Arab, Muslim, sovereign and independent country in 1783 , as well as the passing of 42 years since Bahrain was accepted as a full member of the United Nations, and the anniversary of our accession to the throne.

We underline the strengthening of our national unity, Arab identity and Islamic heritage, following the example of our fathers and forefathers in spreading the spirit of co-existence, love and tolerance among all the people of this good land of different faiths, without distinction or discrimination in our beloved country. Today, thankfully, this blessed march moves forward, overcoming all odds thanks to your sincere will and loyalty and love for Bahrain.
The policy of openness to the world, which we established in the Kingdom of Bahrain, is a source of strength that enables us to benefit from successful experiences for the development of our national performance in various fields, helping build a strong economy and increasing GDP and sustainable development, which is reflected in the improvement of citizens’ living standards and the provision of services such as health care, education and decent housing. We shall not forget, on this occasion, to thank our esteemed government, and we issue our directives on this national occasion for the construction of 40,000 new housing units in the shortest period possible, together with other related services, so as to provide a decent life and a suitable environment to distinguished citizens.
On this glorious day, we are happy to thank all the personnel of the Bahrain Defence Force, the Public Security forces and the National Guard for their sincere efforts in maintaining the security and stability of our homeland.
We also extend our congratulations to our armed forces and our loyal citizens for their stance towards their Majesties and Highnesses the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), to create a unified military command for our armed forces to ensure joint defence work; and the establishment of a coordination centre for maritime security in Bahrain.
As for the Union, we have been deliberating with our brothers their Majesties and Highnesses the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council, on the subject of the transition from coordination to Union, and we agreed to continue to work hard in this regard. The Kingdom of Bahrain is ready from this day for the declaration of the Union, to assert our firm will and our solid determination; and we look forward to the call for a special Summit in Riyadh to announce the establishment of this Union.
As we have become accustomed to expressing appreciation for outstanding efforts on this important national occasion, we honour the pioneers of our national work for their outstanding contribution in serving their country, and also the special operations unit of the National Guard for winning first place in combat readiness. We congratulate them all for the high standards they have achieved.
In conclusion, and in welcoming the distinguished guests who have joined us to celebrate this glorious day, we ask God to help us to serve our religion and our country, and to preserve our Kingdom, for He listens and answers our prayers.
Many happy returns, and Peace and God’s mercy and blessings be upon you.