HRH the Prime Minister directs BCCI to develop rapid response plans for any emergencies

TDT | Manama

Rapid response plans to efficiently deal with the economic repercussions of any emergency must be developed, His Royal Highness the Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa directed yesterday. This must be done especially in regards to food security, the rapid flow of goods, and price control in the markets. HRH the Prime Minister was speaking as he received at his palace in Riffa members of Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), led by BCCI Chairman Sameer Abdulla Nass. HRH the Premier reviewed with them efforts to revitalise the national economy and commercial sectors amid the current circumstances related to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

HRH the Prime Minister indicated that the package of financial and economic measures taken by the Kingdom is aimed primarily at supporting citizens and enabling the commercial and economic sectors to continue their activities. He added that the government will continue supporting the commercial and industrial sectors in a manner that enables them to play their role in revitalising the national economy, overcome the current stage and emerge stronger.

HRH the Premier instructed the Industry, Commerce and Tourism Ministry to cooperate with BCCI and intensify their efforts to study the conditions of owners of small, micro and medium-sized enterprises, as well as the self-employed who have been affected by the precautionary measures taken by the Kingdom to combat COVID-19. He said to ensure that they are supported in order to be able to face the impacts of the current crisis. HRH the Premier stressed the importance of doubling efforts and being committed to the spirit of collective responsibility during the current phase. The Prime Minister affirmed that the government’s priority is to preserve the safety of citizens and residents, as well as support all sectors, especially small traders, noting that the current period requires greater cooperation from everyone to ensure the continuity of commercial activities and economic growth.

“We are confident that Bahrain is capable of overcoming the current crisis and emerging stronger from it, because the development process in our country is based on investment in the human element – the pillar of progress in various fields,” HRH the Premier said. “We are lucky with the citizens of our people, who have showcased the best images of patriotism and dedication in serving their homeland,” he added.

HRH the Premier urged BCCI to intensify its efforts and cooperate with traders to meet the citizens’ needs of various food stuffs and commodities, as well as to ensure their sufficiency at markets at reasonable prices, especially with the near advent of the Holy Month of Ramadan. HRH the Prime Minister called on BCCI to work with various trade and industrial sectors to ensure their commitment to the anti-COVID-19 precautionary measures among expatriate workers by taking all preventive measures at their accommodation and work sites.