Bahrain's future prosperity depends on successfully projecting the message that openness, transparency and the rule of law are respected within the kingdom, said experts at a key business forum held in Manama.

The event was hosted by Robeco Asset Management at the Capital Club where Bahraini and British leaders discussed the challenge of re-engaging with the international financial community and voted unanimously to project a common voice for financial members of the Bahrain British Business Forum (BBBF).

Robeco- sponsored BBBF 'Question Time' panel held discussion on the topic 'Perception is reality - how can we influence both to improve the message?'

The topic was introduced by Robeco Middle East chief executive Douglas Hansen-Luke, who highlighted the seniority and commitment to Bahrain of the panel. It was hosted by BBBF chairman Khalid Al Zayani.

The panel comprised British Ambassador Jamie Bowden, Central Bank of Bahrain banking supervision executive director Khalid Hamad, Merrill Lynch Middle East resident director Jonty Crosse, HSBC Bahrain chief executive Patrick Gallagher and Economic Development Board international adviser Steve Harrison.

During the discussion, panelists and audience agreed that Bahrain's future prosperity depended on successfully projecting the message that openness, transparency and the rule of law are respected within the kingdom.

Panelists said Bahrain is strong enough to accept self-criticism and is now moving in the right direction to re-engage with the international financial community.

'Bahrain has the chance to rebuild its reputation for being a place that welcomes hard working, talented business people from all over the world,' Al Zayani said.

'We need to move quickly and in a coherent way to communicate a clear message, and it is the responsibility of the whole private sector to assist the government in this process,' he added.

'BBBF is in a good position to offer a united front to the UK in encouraging more business in Bahrain. We shall continue to actively promote trade between the two countries,' Al Zayani added.

Members and guests of BBBF were asked to encourage international colleagues to visit the kingdom and see the stability of the business situation and send a positive message to the global business community.-TradeArabia News Service