Reforms are on track following Bahrain's Cabinet reshuffle, HRH the Premier has pledged.

His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa described it as a catalyst to ensure the government's performance copes with aspirations and challenges.

'Pumping new competent, experienced and accepted figures into the government reflects an aspect of the reform process,' he said, as he chaired yesterday's session.

He urged the government's performance to rise to the challenges of the critical period the country is going through.

'This defining moment requires calm to provide a favourable platform ensuring the success of the national dialogue initiative, being led by HRH the Crown Prince,' he said.

HRH the Premier gave directives to give priority to meeting basic needs and fundamental services for citizens.

He also stressed the need to come out with innovative concepts and efficient mechanisms to expand the network of social services and development projects.

'Such schemes should empower citizens to meet living needs,' he said, citing particularly combating poverty and disease.

He also pointed out the crucial importance of ensuring citizens' decent housing and proper living standards.

HRH the Premier welcomed the newly-appointed and re-appointed ministers to contribute to decision-making within the government.

He hailed their efforts in their previous posts, stressing the need to work as a team for the sake of the nation and citizens.

He also thanked the outgoing ministers, hailing their exemplary dedication in serving the motherland.-TradeArabia News Service