Executive and legislative authorities hold joint meeting to discuss finance strategies

TDT | Manama

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The executive and legislative authorities held a joint meeting yesterday at the Council of Representatives to discuss proposed initiatives for developing public finance.

It was held in implementation of the royal visions of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and in line with the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

The meeting underscores Bahrain’s commitment to prioritising citizens, enhancing social services, and strengthening the middle class as a cornerstone of society.

It was chaired by Ahmed bin Salman Al-Musallam, Speaker of the Council of Representatives, and Ali bin Saleh Al-Saleh, Chairman of the Shura Council, with the government side led by His Excellency Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister.

Attendees included H.E. Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy, ministers, deputy speakers, bureau members of both councils, and senior officials.

Commitment

At the outset, Speaker Al-Musallam highlighted the commitment of the legislative and executive authorities to reinforcing constructive cooperation and achieving national priorities.

He praised HRH Prince Salman’s directives to continue providing electricity and water support for citizens’ first homes, enhance programs for low-income individuals, preserve the middle class, and expand opportunities for empowerment and employment—all measures aimed at improving the standard of living and strengthening Bahrain’s economy.

Chairman Al-Saleh emphasised that the joint meeting reflects the integrated partnership between the legislative and executive authorities, advancing the efficiency and quality of social services to meet citizens’ aspirations.

Efforts

He lauded HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister’s ongoing efforts to enhance social support, protect public funds, and prioritize citizens in the allocation of entitlements.

Deputy Prime Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah underlined the spirit of cooperation that has been pivotal to Bahrain’s comprehensive development process.

He conveyed Hir Royal Highness’ greetings to council members and his appreciation for the legislative authority’s role in strengthening national achievements.

Initiatives

H.E. Shaikh Salman noted that initiatives discussed at the meeting are part of broader efforts to ensure fiscal sustainability, enhance spending efficiency, and prioritize citizens in essential services, including electricity and water support, assistance for low-income individuals, and protection of the middle class.

He stressed that continued collaboration with the legislative authority will ensure that the benefits of economic growth reach citizens through expanded job opportunities, increased empowerment, and responsible management of public funds.

During the meeting, officials reviewed several key initiatives aimed at developing public finances and improving citizens’ living standards, including: Support Continued support for electricity and water for citizens’ first residences through direct cash support for the first and second tiers of consumption.

Imposing revenues on company profits exceeding specified thresholds; developing a mechanism for determining fuel prices; adjusting natural gas prices for companies and factories; reviewing work fees for foreign workers.

Revising sewerage fees, exempting citizens’ first residences; increasing selective revenues on soft drinks; improving utilisation of undeveloped investment lands through municipal fee adjustments; and continuing to rationalise government agency expenditures while maintaining service quality.

The joint meeting marks a significant step in Bahrain’s national efforts to achieve fiscal balance, strengthen public services, and sustain economic growth while ensuring that citizens remain at the heart of development.