A comprehensive four-year growth plan was unveiled by Bahrain’s Premier yesterday (January 6), chartering government action for sustained growth, security, justice, equality and citizens' welfare.

His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa outlined the blueprint, in the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier, said a report in the Gulf Daily News (GDN), our sister publication.

In a keynote speech, he described the parliament session as an historic day for co-operation between the government and parliament.

He asserted that despite challenges, the government was keen to make its work plan over the next four years a balanced development programme that meets the needs of the citizens regarding services and investment.

It is also designed to benefit all, promote justice and equality, and consolidate security and stability, while addressing the state budget deficit and reducing public debt gradually, he added.

He said programmes to achieve sustainable economic development, develop income sources, rationalise spending and redirect subsidies were put forward to implement the blueprint, which require a balance between good management of resources in terms of income and spending.

The Premier congratulated MPs for citizens' trust in them and Shura Council members on the Royal trust bestowed upon them.

“We are looking forward to a new phase of national work based on solid co-operation between the legislative and executive branches to achieve more expectations of the people, and consolidate the progress and prosperity of our beloved nation,” he said.

The Premier said the six core priorities of the government's work plan were put forward in line with the directives of the King in his letter designating him to form the new Cabinet and a keynote address at the opening of the current legislative term, and citizens' aspirations.

He said the blueprint aims to upgrade education, training, health, housing, social care and human development services, create job opportunities and improve services for women and youth, while providing infrastructure that supports comprehensive development.

Quality health care for sickle cell anaemia patients has been given top priority in the action plan, he said.

The Premier said a comprehensive strategy to improve government performance, increase productivity and competence, ensure commitment to accountability and transparency, and deliver speedy services was put forward to ensure that the above goals are achieved.

He added that the private sector's role in implementing development programmes was also highlighted.

The Premier said the action plan also emphasises the kingdom's commitment towards the GCC and its role in the Arab League, Organisation of Islamic Co-operation and the UN. - TradeArabia News Service