His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa has called for greater economic openness to the world, especially in light of the new trends among major countries towards establishing stronger partnerships with the countries of the region, which, he said, paves the way for the banking sector to be an effective contributor to such partnerships.
HRH the Prime Minister stressed that the government has exerted tremendous efforts to create suitable conditions for improving the performance of the banking sector in the kingdom, noting that risk management professionalism has been a crucial element in overcoming crises and reducing their effects on various sectors, particularly the banking and financial ones.
The Prime Minister praised the national banking leaders who are still doing their utmost to develop banking operations in the kingdom, and have gained, thanks to that, regional and global acclaim, which, he said, is a source of pride.
HRH Premier was speaking as he received the Board of Directors of the Bahrain Association of Banks (BAB), led by Adnan Ahmed Yussef.
The Prime Minister praised the performance of the financial and banking sector, and its pivotal role in supporting development efforts thanks to its national leaderships and competencies who have consolidated the kingdom's regional and international banking status thanks to their efforts and expertise.
The Premier highlighted the government's continuous efforts to develop the financial and banking sector and putting in place a suitable atmosphere that allows it to continue its growth and contribute more effectively to the National economy.
HRH the Prime Minister commended the efforts exerted by BAB to consolidate Bahrain's reputation and status in the banking services sector regionally and internationally, praising its visions aimed at developing the banking sector in the kingdom.
HRH Premier praised the role played by the civil society organisations, including BAB, in supporting the government's development efforts within the existing strategic partnership between them.
The Bahrain Association of Banks credited HRH Premier with the progress witnessed by the banking sector in the kingdom.
In this regard, BAB board chairman and members lauded HRH Premier's role in enhancing banking work, and encouraging national competencies to hold leadership positions at national banking institutions, and those using Bahrain as the centre of their regional operations.
They lauded the Prime Minister's unwavering support to financial and banking institutions, which, they said, has contributed to strengthening their standing at the local and international levels. 

Source: BNA