*** National Food Security Drive Highlights Mara'ee 2025 Opening | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

National Food Security Drive Highlights Mara'ee 2025 Opening

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa opened the eighth edition of the Bahrain International Show (Mara’ee 2025) at the Bahrain International Endurance Village, welcomed by Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture. Minister Al Mubarak highlighted the King’s continuous support for the exhibition and commitment to sustainable agriculture, food security, and the preservation of Bahrain's agricultural heritage, noting that the efforts are driven by the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The Minister stressed that the royal vision views agriculture as a national responsibility supporting food security and environmental sustainability, and commended the support of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa in advancing these initiatives.

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The Ministry is actively pursuing national directives to expand green coverage, including the successful planting of over 600,000 trees and significant mangrove cultivation as part of the afforestation plan led by Team Bahrain. Reflecting this focus, this year's exhibition features a dedicated pavilion for mangrove trees, recognizing their role in addressing climate change and supporting biodiversity. The Minister also proudly noted that the event coincided with the Ministry receiving the Arab Government Excellence Award from the Arab League for its agricultural training initiative, a recognition of His Majesty’s vision centered on human capital.

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Key government projects outlined include the allocation of over 1.2 million square metres of land to Bahraini farmers and breeders via the Government Land Investment Platform to support local production. Other strategic initiatives include establishing a plant genetic resources bank and launching an international dates observatory in cooperation with the International Council for Dates in Saudi Arabia, to serve as a hub for expertise and knowledge-sharing. Minister Al Mubarak reiterated that the King's patronage is essential to the advancement of a productive and sustainable agricultural and livestock sector.

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The opening included traditional art, cultural performances, and equestrian displays from Bahrain and the Republic of Azerbaijan. HM the King awarded competition winners and supporting organizations. Concluding the event, HM the King emphasized Bahrain’s ongoing commitment to developing the agricultural and livestock sectors as crucial to national development and food security. He commended the government's programs, led by the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for focusing on agricultural, livestock, and marine development. His Majesty praised the Ministry for promoting innovation and modern technology within the sector and highlighted the importance of the Azerbaijani participation, reflecting strong bilateral ties. HM the King lauded the success of Mara’ee 2025, its international reach, and its role in supporting local businesses and encouraging investment.