Minister Listens, Communities Lead
Bringing the government's national belonging initiative closer to the people, His Excellency General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior, visited Zallaq and Budaiya yesterday as part of a multi-district listening tour.
The visits, held in the presence of ministry officials and local leaders, spanned both the Southern and Northern Governorates and reflected the government's deepening strategy of grassroots engagement.
Residents received personal greetings from His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, delivered by the Minister during the meetings.
National Roots
Families in both areas voiced strong pride in their Bahraini identity and praised the leadership's efforts to safeguard authentic traditions in a rapidly changing society.
H.E. the Minister noted that Bahraini youth remain central to national initiatives, describing them as vital thinkers and contributors to a cohesive and resilient society.
His Excellency also praised the longstanding role of Bahraini families in fostering tolerance, affection, and unity. These qualities, H.E. said, form the foundation of the Kingdom's civil peace.
The meetings are part of the broader National Plan to Promote the Spirit of Belonging to the Nation and Reinforce the Values of Nationalism.
H.E. General Shaikh Rashid, who chairs the plan's ministerial follow-up committee, said community partnership is not just a concept but a practical strategy requiring active collaboration between citizens and institutions.
His Excellency also thanked governorate officials for helping maintain communication and supporting development projects that align with community priorities.
Future-Facing Traditions
During the dialogue, residents reaffirmed their loyalty to the leadership and shared suggestions and concerns related to local services and development.
Many said Bahrain's traditions are living values that continue to shape daily life and strengthen unity, especially as society adapts to technological and cultural shifts.
As the meeting concluded, attendees expressed appreciation for the Minister's visit and described it as a meaningful gesture of national partnership in action.
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