Day: August 14, 2024

Manama, Abdullah bin Adel Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce, emphasised the ministry's commitment to continuously enhancing regulatory procedures and decisions related to the services it provides. This pertains particularly to fostering entrepreneurship, encouraging innovation and creativity in this sector, and promoting the growth and competitiveness of small enterprises. The minister said these efforts play an important role in accelerating commercial and industrial activities, supporting economic diversification, and creating more promising opportunities that contribute to increasing the gross domestic product and benefiting the national economy. The minister also highlighted Order (51) of 2024 regarding allowing the practice of some commercial activities through a virtual store. This order consolidates all previous decisions related to conducting certain commercial activities through the establishment of the virtual commercial registration (Sijili) into a single decision to facilitate reference for investors and entrepreneurs. Additionally, it expands the eligibility to benefit from Sijili by allowing licence applicants to be sole proprietors, company owners, or board members, with the procedures applicable to sole proprietorships and companies being maintained. Fakhro said that this initiative was driven by the growing interest of Bahraini traders in registering with the virtual commercial establishment Sijili, which allows them to conduct commercial activities without a physical business address. This measure simplifies the establishment of certain enterprises as defined by the decision. He also noted that, in line with the ministry's policy to engage the community, particularly those benefiting from its services, in the design and development of the services it offers, This order was issued based on citizen proposals to provide greater flexibility in conducting commercial activities and to support innovation under fair competitive rules. The minister noted that this order has expanded the numb er of commercial activities permitted through the virtual commercial establishment to 71, following the addition of 30 new activities. This expansion aims to support Bahraini talents and capabilities across various fields, facilitate entry into the commercial sector, and enhance a stimulating economic environment. The virtual commercial registration Sijili was launched as part of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce efforts to support and encourage small individual enterprises, granting them legal status to conduct their activities and simplifying the establishment process for certain enterprises (such as freelancers including photographers, translators, trainers, consultants, and others). The ministry aims to introduce a new model for conducting certain commercial activities. Source : Bahrain News Agency

Riyadh, The Transport General Authority (TGA) has recently organized a seminar focused on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) sustainability for the maritime sector. The seminar, titled "Environmental, Social and Governance of the Maritime Sector" (TGA Maritime ESG Symposium), was hosted by the Maritime Transport Agency. Distinguished maritime sector experts from companies such as Rawabi, BV, Terases, and SAB participated in the event. The seminar, attended by local maritime company executives and sector leaders, deliberated on the significance of embracing and implementing ESG principles as part of a future strategy to attain environmental and social sustainability and governance, TGA said in a news release. The symposium emphasized the importance of integrating environmental, social, and governance principles to promote the adoption of best sustainability practices, achieve sustainable environmental and social objectives, and underscore the role of industry leaders in catalyzing innovation and shap ing sustainable policies. Additionally, it highlighted the encouragement of partnerships and cooperation to foster comprehensive and sustainable development in the maritime sector. This initiative aligns with the recommendations of the Sustainable Marine Industry Conference (SMIC-2023), aiming to promote awareness of optimal environmental and social practices, as well as government ESG standards for all stakeholders in the maritime sector. The long-term goal is to embed environmental, social, and governance practices into business strategies and decision-making processes, thus paving the way toward sustainability in the marine industry. Source: Saudi Press Agency

Manama, The Kingdom of Bahrain strongly condemned and disapproved of the actions taken by two Israeli government ministers, members of the Israeli Knesset, and a group of extremists, who forcibly entered Al Aqsa Mosque, raising flags under the protection of Israeli police. This act is deemed a repeated provocation against the sentiments of Muslims and a blatant violation of international norms, laws, and conventions, particularly at a time when the international community is concentrating on efforts to de-escalate regional tensions, a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said. The statement emphasised the importance of respecting the existing legal and historical status of Al Quds Al Sharif. Source : Bahrain News Agency

Riyadh, The land patrols of the Border Guards in the Batha' sector of the Eastern Region have provided assistance to four Pakistani nationals whose vehicle became stuck in the sand dunes of Rub' Al-Khali (Empty Quarter) Desert. The Border Guards urge the public to contact 911 from Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Region, or 994 from other regions across Saudi Arabia, to request assistance in emergency situations. Source: Saudi Press Agency

Manama, Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy, met with Dato' Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture in Malaysia. Fatima bint Jaafar Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism; Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA); Sara Ahmed Buhiji, CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA); and Shazryll Zahiran, the Malaysian Ambassador to Bahrain, were present. The two sides reviewed economic and tourism cooperation and discussed topics of common interest. During the meeting, the minister highlighted the Bahrain-Malaysia relations and advanced cooperation in various sectors, particularly in finance and economy. He noted the mutual commitment to further developing cooperation between the two countries. Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa emphasised the role of the tourism sector as a promising economic sector that supports economic growth, as a key driver for various economic sectors. Source : Bahrain News Agency

Cairo, The Saudi-Egyptian Military Committee held its 10th meeting in Cairo on Tuesday, chaired by Chief of Saudi General Staff General Fayyad bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili and Chief of Staff of the Egyptian Armed Forces Lieutenant General Ahmed Fathy Khalifa. During the meeting, they reviewed relations between the two countries, ways to enhance them in the defense field, and a number of topics of mutual interest. The meeting was attended by several senior officers from the armed forces of both sides. Source: Saudi Press Agency

Manama, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour, and Rawan bint Najeeb Tawfiqi, Minister of Youth Affairs, attended the International Youth Day celebration at Youth City 2030, organised by the Youth Affairs Ministry. The theme of the event was "Digital Pathways to Sustainable Development." It underscored the vital role of youth in driving sustainable development and digital innovation. Minister Humaidan said Youth City 2030 as a crucial platform for equipping young Bahrainis with the skills needed for the workforce, in line with Bahrain's other development goals. He commended the initiative for motivating youth to refine their skills and prepare for successful careers. The event also showcased achievements of Bahraini youth in digital transformation and technology, illustrating their significant contributions to the Kingdom's progress. Source : Bahrain News Agency

Kuwait, On behalf of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Minister of State and Cabinet Member Prince Turki bin Mohammed bin Fahd bin Abdulaziz has visited the State of Kuwait to convey the condolences and sympathy of the Kingdom's leadership to the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Mishaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and Kuwait's Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah on the death of Chief of the National Guard Sheikh Salem Al-Ali Al-Salem Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah. During his visit, Prince Turki was accompanied by Saudi Ambassador to Kuwait Prince Sultan bin Saad bin Khalid. Source: Saudi Press Agency

Manama, The Ministry of Labour the Nasser Artificial Intelligence Research and Development Centre (NAIRDC) signed a Memorandum of Agreenment (MoU). The MoU aims to modernise the ministry's systems through advanced technology and innovative solutions to enhance efficiency and service delivery for beneficiaries. . The agreement was signed by His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Labour, and Dr. Abdullah bin Nasser Al Nuaimi, NAIRDC CEO. The MoU focuses on leveraging cutting-edge technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, to streamline services, improve daily operations, and boost productivity within the ministry. HH Shaikh Khalifa said the collaboration will involve the set up of a dedicated team tasked with digital transformation and enhancing customer satisfaction. Source : Bahrain News Agency

Riyadh, The King Salman Social Center, in cooperation with SADM Company and Athar Health Association, announced joint effort to provide free eye examinations to 3,000 beneficiaries using the innovative "Smart Tester" technology, which has been specifically designed for the early diagnosis of eye diseases related to diabetes and represents a crucial step in reducing the spread of blindness, allowing for the initiation of treatment at early stages to increase the chances of recovery. The "Smart Tester" technology, which quickly and accurately examines the eyes, has proven its effectiveness in serving many patients, enhancing confidence in the quality of innovative technological solutions. The first phase of the joint effort was completed in collaboration with the King Salman Social Center, which conducted 1,000 free eye examinations in record time, ahead of the scheduled duration. The Athar Association mobilized 172 healthcare volunteers who provided 7,510 hours of volunteer work. The cooperation underscores the impact of the partnership in addressing healthcare needs and improving the quality of life for thousands of individuals in the Kingdom. Source: Saudi Press Agency