His Majesty King Hamad opened the new BD20 million ($53 million) Isa Cultural Centre and National Library describing it as a 'symbol of Bahrain's advancement and progress over the years'.

The landmark project has been built in recognition of the great cultural achievements and advancement that have been made in Bahrain during the rule of the late Amir, HH Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, he said.

He was speaking during the opening ceremony for the 7,000sqm cultural edifice on Al Fateh Corniche.

'It is our pleasure to open today the Isa Cultural Centre, a modern project, named after the father of all of us and leader of our new era of progress,' the King said.

'The project will meet the Bahraini citizens' aspirations, taking into consideration that culture and human resources are the greatest enduring national wealth that would remain firm when other fortunes might diminish or vanish.'

The ceremony was also attended by Prime Minister Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.-TradeArabia News Service