“Bahrain will remain the homeland of one family, a beacon of tolerance, openness and coexistence, and a center for creativity and initiative.” With these words, His Majesty the King summarized the journey of a nation that believed in its civilizational message, and was able to prove to the world that democracy is not a slogan, but rather an established practice that develops year after year.
The words of His Majesty the King, which overflow with pride for the people of this land, came during His Majesty’s receipt of the annual report on the work of the Shura and Representatives Councils for the third session of the sixth legislative term, to embody the depth of the close relationship between the leadership and the legislative authority, a relationship established by the lofty royal vision to be a foundation in building a state of institutions and law.
His Majesty the King’s praise of the achievements of the two councils during the past sessions was a sincere expression of the leadership’s belief that parliamentary work is an authentic partner in national development. Anyone who follows the Bahraini scene realizes that this support represents an approach rooted in the philosophy of governance, based on the involvement of all state institutions in shaping the future and realizing the aspirations of the Bahraini citizen for development and prosperity.
The annual reports submitted by the Shura Council and the House of Representatives represent the summary of a continuous institutional effort that reflects the real role played by the legislative authority in supporting development plans, monitoring government performance, and formulating legislation that enhances the path of national economic and social reform. From discussing public budgets to developing laws, and from parliamentary diplomacy to partnership with civil society, the legislative authority is moving forward with confident steps under the umbrella of Constitution and Charter.
The House of Representatives’ obtaining ISO accreditation for environmental management systems represents a new culmination of the institutional approach adopted by Bahrain, and reflects a bright image of a parliament that is not satisfied with its legislative role, but rather seeks excellence in sustainable management and governance, to become a regional role model in adhering to global standards.
What has been achieved to date is merely a station in an ongoing national journey, built on mutual trust between the leadership and the people, and guided by a lofty royal vision that believes that the human being is the foundation, engine and goal of all development.
As the new session approaches, next Sunday, everyone is looking forward to the royal speech that will set the features of the next stage and define the priorities for national action, in light of constructive cooperation between the legislative and executive authorities, and with an unwavering determination to serve Bahrain and its people.
In light of this high royal patronage, and the patriotic spirit of the members of the legislative authority, Bahrain is moving confidently towards a brighter future, where legislative work intersects with the popular dream, and the royal will is embodied in a reality of development, justice and prosperity.