In a statement after the conclusion of the first session, he stressed the status of the Government as a participant in the sessions of talks, pinning hope on the dialogue to promote political life in Bahrain.
The participants agreed to hold sessions on Sunday and Wednesday and approve decisions by consensus, instead of voting.
The agenda as well as the national dialogue procedures have yet to be finalized. The minister expressed his confidence in the credibility of the participants to reach desired consensual results, adding that all issues are on the table of the dialogue
Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al-Khalifa conveyed greetings from His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa and the political leadership to all participants in the National Dialogue, wishing them success for the sake of the country.
The minister addressed the opening session, saying that the table of dialogue would be the decision-maker during the discussions with the aim of reaching consensual visions.
The first session brought together 27 participants representing 8 societies from the national coalition and 8 others representing six political associations.
Eight legislative representatives are also attending, along with the ministers of justice, education and works, who represent the Government, while Judge Khalid Ajaji and Dr. Abdulla Taleb are in charge of moderating the sessions.
“The participants paid tribute to HM the King for his call to resume the national dialogue and tackle pending political issues”, official spokesman Isa Abdulrahman told the press.
The first session was held in a positive and cordial atmosphere with participants resolved to ensure the success of the national dialogue.
Asked about the Government’s guarantees, Abdulrahman said that 217 recommendations had already been implemented, out of 290 approved in the previous round of talks.
He pointed out that the remaining recommendations are in the process of being implemented.