Latest news with #ShaikhAbdullahbinAhmedAlKhalifa
Daily Tribune
3 days ago
- Politics
- Daily Tribune
Bahrain ‘model of religious freedom and coexistence'
Bahrain is a pioneering model for promoting religious freedom, peaceful coexistence, and national unity in the region. This was emphasised by His Excellency Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the King Hamad Global Centre for Coexistence and Tolerance. He attributed this achievement to the wise leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the continued support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. 'Bahrain has long stood as a beacon of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect, offering a civilisational model worthy of emulation,' Dr. Shaikh Abdullah said. 'The Ashura commemoration this year was a clear reflection of our deeply rooted values of tolerance and compassion under the guidance of His Majesty the King and the diligent efforts of the government led by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.' The Minister commended the successful and well-coordinated organisation of the Ashura season, noting that it represented Bahrain's genuine commitment to religious and cultural pluralism. He acknowledged the exemplary coordination among relevant government entities — particularly the Ministry of Interior and the governorates — under the leadership and direct supervision of H.E. Lieutenant General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior. Dr. Shaikh Abdullah also praised the collaboration with the Jaffari Endowments Council, religious scholars, community leaders, mourning center coordinators, and volunteer teams, which together ensured the smooth and respectful observance of religious rituals. 'These collective efforts have portrayed an honorable and civilised image of Bahraini society — one that values law, embraces responsibility, and fosters community partnership,' he noted. Public awareness Dr. Shaikh Abdullah emphasised that the public's awareness and respect for the moral and spiritual significance of religious occasions serve as a pillar of Bahrain's unified national identity. He added that the country's values are deeply rooted in Islamic principles, cultural richness, and a steadfast commitment to moderation, tolerance, and the rejection of extremism and hatred.
Bahrain This Week
18-06-2025
- Business
- Bahrain This Week
BAC and Texel Air Sign MOU at Paris Airshow 2025
His Excellency Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, reaffirmed the Kingdom of Bahrain's steadfast commitment to advancing its ambitious strategy for the development of the civil aviation sector and the enhancement of related infrastructure, in alignment with the highest international standards. His Excellency emphasized that Aircraft Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) is a key pillar of this strategy, given the sector's promising investment potential and its vital role in supporting Bahrain's comprehensive aviation ecosystem. He further noted that the expansion of advanced maintenance services at Bahrain International Airport strengthens the Kingdom's ability to attract high-quality investments and contributes meaningfully to the national economic diversification agenda. Dr. Shaikh Abdullah also highlighted the partnership with Texel Air as an exemplary model of public-private sector collaboration in developing aviation services—reinforcing Bahrain's position as a flexible and efficient regional logistics hub. This statement follows the formal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), the operator and managing body of Bahrain International Airport (BIA), and Texel Air, a specialist in air cargo and aircraft maintenance. The MoU was signed during the Paris Air Show, held from June 16 to 22, 2025, and outlines plans for a major expansion of aircraft MRO hangar capabilities at the airport. The signing ceremony took place in the presence of His Excellency Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, and was officiated by Mr. Jeffrey Goh, Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Air Group on behalf of BAC, and George Chisholm, Executive Board Member of Texel Air. Under the terms of the MoU, Texel Air's operations at Bahrain International Airport will be expanded through the development of a new 7,000-square-meter Code C aircraft hangar, along with an additional 10,000 square meters of apron, maneuvering and taxiway area. The new facility is designed to accommodate up to three Code C aircraft or multiple ultra long-range business jets in a climate-controlled environment, providing specialized parking and maintenance conditions tailored to high-value private and corporate aviation. This substantial infrastructure investment will significantly elevate Bahrain International Airport's capacity and standing as a premier regional aviation hub. The Chairman of Gulf Air Group, Mr. Khalid Hussain Taqi, stated, 'This MoU embodies the Group's long-term vision of creating valuable and sustainable opportunities for private sector partners and investors. This initiative will undoubtedly contribute to supporting the national economy through strategic investment in the Kingdom's aviation infrastructure. Our partnership with Texel Air is crucial. It stands as a truly successful model of effective collaboration. As a Bahraini company with a prominent regional impact, Texel Air's growth trajectory at Bahrain International Airport perfectly aligns with the Group's vision to foster a flexible and attractive environment for air cargo and aircraft maintenance and repair activities.' Mr. Jeffrey Goh, Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Air Group commented, 'BAC is committed to supporting investors at Bahrain International Airport and enabling their commercial expansion and business growth, a core part of BAC's strategy to enhance private aviation operation. Supporting the logistics sector is an urgent necessity for diversifying airport services and solidifying the Kingdom of Bahrain's position as a regional aviation hub. Texel Air is a strategic partner that actively contributes to the air cargo and aviation ecosystem at Bahrain International Airport. Significantly, this expansion reflects investor confidence in the airport's capability to support various services and operations. George Chisholm, Executive Board Member of Texel Air Said, 'This investment reflects Texel Air's long-term commitment to the Kingdom of Bahrain as a strategic base for both commercial and corporate aviation. We're proud to work alongside BAC to build infrastructure that meets the evolving needs of the region.'
Daily Tribune
19-02-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
Cross-Border Collaboration Key to Digital Growth, Say Leaders at DCO Summit in Jordan
Digital Economy at the Forefront of Global Collaboration at DCO 4th General Assembly The digital economy is shaping the future of global collaboration, with data sovereignty and security emerging as critical concerns in an increasingly interconnected world. As nations push for cross-border digital transformation, leaders emphasize the importance of governance, knowledge sharing, and international cooperation. Speaking at the 4th General Assembly of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) in Jordan, Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs, outlined Bahrain's strategic focus since hosting last year's event. 'We have taken concrete steps in three key areas: establishing data governance regulations and guidelines, promoting knowledge exchange, and strengthening partnerships with international organizations,' he said, highlighting a clear roadmap for digital progress. During the opening session, H.E. Sami Smeirat, Jordan's Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship, emphasized the country's commitment to technological advancement. 'In Jordan, 22% of universities are now teaching advanced technology courses,' he remarked, signaling the nation's investment in digital education. DCO Secretary-General Deemah Alyahya stressed the need for inclusive digital transformation. 'Not everyone is moving at the same pace. We must ensure that digital transformation is inclusive and that we move forward together,' she urged, calling for a collaborative approach to technological development. The role of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the digital economy and the future was a key discussion point, with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations and other countries weighing in on their strategies. Saudi Arabia underscored the importance of inclusivity, stating that supporting women, youth, and entrepreneurs will be a driving force in economic growth. Kuwait acknowledged the shift toward a digital future, with officials stating, 'We are in a new era of digital transformation, and adjusting our economies is more crucial than ever.' Other countries also shared their visions. Rwanda emphasized its commitment to studying investment growth in the digital sector, while Pakistan outlined its strategy for private-sector-led digital transformation. 'Our vision is to drive digital progress by fostering innovation and empowering the private sector,' a Pakistani representative noted. With nations worldwide aligning their policies to harness digital opportunities, the DCO General Assembly served as a critical platform for advancing cross-border collaboration and ensuring that the benefits of the digital revolution reach all. Additionally, Jordan handed over the DCO Presidency to Kuwait, with H.E. Sami Smeirat, Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship, making the official declaration. He also announced that the presidency will transition to Pakistan in 2026, ensuring continuity in the organization's leadership and vision.
Trade Arabia
18-02-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Deal signed to enhance Khalifa Bin Salman Port facilities
Bahrain's Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications and APM Terminals, the operator of Khalifa Bin Salman Port, have signed a letter of intent to further enhance the port facilities and develop national talent. Dr Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, highlighted the importance of collaborating with APM Terminals and the importance of integrating advanced technologies and innovative solutions to enhance operational capacity and environmental sustainability. These efforts contribute to long-term economic growth, a Bahrain News Agency (BNA) report said. He emphasised Bahrain's commitment to enhancing cooperation with global companies to develop the transport, ports, and maritime sectors. He highlighted efforts to improve infrastructure quality, further developing Bahrain's position as a regional logistics hub, and support sustainable development in line with Economic Vision 2030. Jonathan Goldner, APM Terminals' regional Chief Executive for Asia and the Middle East, highlighted the company's commitment to expanding its strategic partnership with Bahrain. He emphasised efforts to enhance port capacity, provide advanced logistics services, and develop human capital to support environmental and sustainable development goals.
Biz Bahrain
17-02-2025
- Business
- Biz Bahrain
Transportation Ministry launches online system for small vessel registration and licensing
The Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications launched an online platform for small vessel registration and licensing. Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, emphasised the ministry's commitment to digital transformation by delivering high-quality, efficient, and competitive services. He noted that these efforts align with Bahrain's comprehensive development process under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the support of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The minister highlighted the platform's role in advancing government services as part of the ministry's digital transformation strategy for sustainable digital transformation, which is in line with the Government Programme (2023-2026) and Bahrain Economic Vision 2030. Bader Hood Al Mahmood, Undersecretary for Ports and Maritime Affairs, said that the platform offers services such as registration, licensing, renewals, and ownership transfers, serving over 25,000 users and 8,000 vessels while reducing processing time by up to 50 per cent. Users can access services via the e-key or national portal ( without visiting service centres. The platform includes QR code verification and is integrated with relevant authorities, including the Coast Guard. BNA(R)
