By Kholood Al-Enezi MANAMA, Dec 16 (KUNA) -- Bahrain's national celebrations, on December 16, stand as a testament to an extended journey of construction and achievement led by a royal vision that laid the foundations of a modern state, consolidated pillars of progress and stability, and placed people at the heart and ultimate goal of development.
The Kingdom is living the atmosphere of National Day and the anniversary of the accession of the Bahraini monarch, King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, significant occasions not confined to the conscience of Bahrainis alone but the Gulf states and their peoples, foremost the State of Kuwait.
Kuwait Charge d'Affaires to Bahrain Yousef Al-Banwan said deeply-rooted relations binding the two brotherly countries constitute a distinctive model of integration and reflect unity of destiny and close historical ties between their leaderships and peoples.
In a statement to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Al-Banwan said cherished national occasions of the Kingdom of Bahrain represent a bright milestone in its developmental journey and reflect the achievements and comprehensive renaissance realized under its wise leadership and government, as well as the security, stability and progress it enjoys across various fields.
He affirmed the State of Kuwait viewed Bahrain's national celebrations as dear occasions to the hearts of all Kuwaitis, given the strong bonds and firm ties of religion, blood, history, language, kinship and shared destiny that unite the two brotherly countries.
He noted the continuous development witnessed in Kuwaiti-Bahraini relations across various fields, thanks to the instructions of the leadership of both countries, and their mutual keenness to strengthen bilateral cooperation and elevate it in a manner that serves interests of the two peoples and enhances the framework of joint Gulf action.
Al-Banwan wished Bahrain further progress and prosperity, and for its people continued security and stability.
On this occasion, Bahrain is witnessing feelings of pride in qualitative achievements realized across various fields, and in the firm national will that unites its people behind a leadership that works tirelessly for a more prosperous and stable future. This reflects a shared vision for building a modern state based on justice, equality and the rule of law, moving steadily toward the future.
These celebrations coincide with a year that witnessed notable development momentum at various levels, as Bahrain continued its path of institutional reform, strengthened principles of transparency and accountability, and developed the way the government functions in ways that enhance performance efficiency and keep pace with the aspirations of the current stage.
On the economic front, the Kingdom achieved remarkable progress thanks to flexible policies based on innovation and diversification, and support for promising sectors such as financial technology, industry, logistics services and telecommunications. This enhanced Bahrain's ability to attract investment and consolidated a stable economic environment capable of achieving sustainable growth.
Bahrain has also placed increasing emphasis on citizens as the foundation and driver of development, through the implementation of programs to empower national competencies, provide job opportunities, and support training and professional development, thereby enhancing the readiness of human resources and contributing to the support of the national economy.
On the social front, the Kingdom continued to strengthen the social protection system, expand the scope of services provided to citizens, and support most needy groups, reflecting a comprehensive vision aimed at improving quality of life.
During 2025, Bahrain witnessed notable cultural and tourism momentum through hosting diverse international and regional events that contributed to consolidating its position as a center for culture, arts, and the conferences and events industry, and attracting visitors from around the world.
In the sports field, achievements continued at both local and international levels, reflecting attention to developing sports infrastructure and enhancing Bahrain's presence on the global stage.
In a prominent Gulf milestone, Bahrain consolidated its leading position in joint Gulf action by hosting the 46th Gulf Summit on December 3. During the summit, the Kingdom emphasized the importance of strengthening integration among GCC states and unifying efforts across political, economic and security fields, based on a vision founded on shared destiny and mutual interests.
Hosting the summit came as confirmation of the active role played by Bahrain in supporting the framework of joint Gulf action, strengthening cooperation among the six GCC states, and continuing the journey of shared development that has united the peoples of the region for decades.
Within the framework of the firm relations between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the State of Kuwait, the past year witnessed further deepening of cooperation at various levels, as the leadership of both countries continued to support the partnership path through the Joint Supreme Committee and to enhance initiatives that serve Gulf interests, consolidate unity of ranks, and reinforce the depth of historical ties between the two brotherly peoples.
Bahraini-Kuwaiti relations constitute an advanced model of strong relations based on mutual respect and unity of shared destiny, as both countries are keen to expand cooperation in all fields in a manner that reflects the strength of the partnership and a unified vision toward the future of the region.
The Kingdom of Bahrain continues its journey confidently toward the future, relying on a firm royal vision, an aware and ambitious people, and a will that knows no way back, entering a new phase of achievements and comprehensive development that reflects its firm position within its Gulf and Arab surroundings and at the international level.
December 16 marks Bahrain National Day, commemorating the Kingdom's declaration of independence in 1971. The people of Bahrain celebrate this national occasion on December 16 and 17, as well as the anniversary of the establishment of the modern Bahraini state during the era of its founder, Ahmad Al-Fateh, in 1783, as well as marking the accession of the Bahraini monarch to office and Bahrain's accession to the United Nations as a full member state. (end) kne.eng