29-04-2021

(May 1, 2021) In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful Dear brother, Mr. Yaqoob Yousef Mohammed Executive Council Chairman of the Bahrain Free Labour Unions Federation (Al Hurr) Dear brother, representative of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry Brothers and sisters, workers of Bahrain Ladies and gentlemen, dear guests May peace and God’s mercy and blessings be upon you, I am pleased to extend my sincere congratulations on the occasion of International Workers’ Day. I express my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the Executive Council of the Free Federation of Bahrain Trade Unions for their commitment to holding this annual celebration via videoconferencing — in adherence to precautionary measures and national guidelines to combat the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). Their dedication to honouring a group of loyal Bahraini workers and to fostering productive cooperation between the production parties in building and developing our beloved nation is deeply appreciated. We sincerely thank you for your continued efforts and unwavering commitment to recognising Bahraini workers on their international day. On this occasion, I cannot but renew my greetings and appreciation to all the workers of Bahrain who have doubled their efforts in work and giving and who have been keen to continue the process of nation-building while adhering to all health measures necessitated by the pandemic. I offer a special salute of reverence and gratitude to the medical personnel and front-line workers, who deserve all our appreciation, respect, and praise. Sisters and brethren, The Kingdom of Bahrain, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the country’s great king, may God protect and preserve him, and with the support of the esteemed Government, headed by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, may God protect him, has consistently placed the stability and safety of the human element in Bahrain as a top priority. The Kingdom’s plans to confront challenges have been comprehensive, addressing all aspects of life essential to achieving a cohesive, healthy, and socio-economically stable society. Bahrain was among the first countries to implement numerous economic measures, packages, and financial incentives, enabling the private sector to maintain its operations—thereby helping to avert layoffs and ensure the stability of the labour market. Now, as signs of a gradual return to everyday life emerge, we are relying heavily on overcoming the effects of the pandemic on the economy and the labour market. We look forward to moving past this stage, having written a remarkable success story at the global level. The Kingdom has once again demonstrated its pioneering role in development and production, thanks to the wisdom and vision of our esteemed leadership and government, may God protect them. Sisters and brethren, The pandemic did not hinder the development programs and projects launched and implemented by the esteemed government. The spirit of determination remains the driving force behind many initiatives. Perhaps the launch of the second edition of the National Employment Program is the most prominent example, aimed at maintaining stable employment levels and job creation, giving priority to Bahraini citizens as the first choice in employment, while preserving labour market flexibility to attract national talent. By the grace of God, we have succeeded in achieving employment and training targets according to established work plans, thanks to the support and solidarity of all our partners. We continue to work with you to sustain the labour market's continuity, stability, and growth. In conclusion, I am pleased, on behalf of all of you, to extend my deepest thanks and appreciation to His Majesty the King, may God protect and preserve him, and to His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, Prime Minister, may God protect him, for their unwavering support for Bahrain’s workers. I also express my sincere gratitude to all our workers and employers who, with high national spirit, contribute to achieving greater national accomplishments and advancing towards a brighter future. I pray to Almighty God that this occasion returns to us while our beloved Bahrain enjoys more significant progress and prosperity. Asking God Almighty to guide us to what is good and right. May the peace, mercy, and blessings of God be upon you.