Bahrain has emerged stronger, braving all challenges and threats to derail its development, HRH Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa said yesterday (April 24) as he opened two major exhibitions.

"The country has bounced back, thanks to the government's determination and strong-willed people," the Premier said.

He made his remarks as he launched the sixth gulfBID and gulfInteriors 2012 at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre, organised by Hilal Conferences and Exhibitions (HEC) under the patronage of the Premier.

He described exhibitions and specialised conferences as evidence that Bahrain would always remain an oasis of security and stability.

"Attempts to defame Bahrain and belittle landmark development achievements will have no effect," he said.

The Premier hailed the crucial role of the private sector in backing government-led efforts to promote Bahrain as a pioneering hub for such specialised exhibitions.

He toured the expo which brings together 140 local and international exhibitors. He stressed the government's resolve to revitalise trade despite challenges and spur growth.

He described the sectors of construction and interior design as very promising in Bahrain - being a hub for investment and development and a pioneering centre for conferences and exhibitions.

"Bahrain's attractiveness as a hub wooing major fairs and conferences was not affected by the events," he said.

"Bahrain has preserved its share of economic and sporting events, which represents a global vote of confidence," he added.

He stressed the government's determination to revitalise the construction sector, being a cornerstone of the national economy.

He also pointed out plans to pump more government funds into infrastructure, basic services and housing.

Anwar Abdulrahman, chairman of Al Hilal Group, the parent company of HCE, expressed deep thanks and appreciation to HRH the Premier for patronising the sixth gulfBID and gulfInteriors 2012.

He praised the government for directly backing the exhibition in Bahrain, describing sixth gulfBID and gulfInteriors 2012 as a platform to showcase latest trends and seal excellent contracts. – TradeArabia News Service