Manama: His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa attended the opening of the eighth edition of the Bahrain International Show (Mara'ee 2025) at the Bahrain International Endurance Village. Upon arrival, His Majesty was welcomed by Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, along with other senior officials.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Minister Al Mubarak highlighted His Majesty the King's ongoing support for the exhibition and his commitment to sustainable agriculture, food security, and the preservation of Bahrain's agricultural heritage. The Minister emphasized the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in driving efforts to bolster national food security. Furthermore, the Minister underscored agriculture as a national responsibility that supports food security, environmental sustainability, and future needs, commending the support of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa for advancing sustainable development.
Aligned with national directives, the Ministry continues to enhance green coverage and plant tree species suitable for Bahrain's environment. These initiatives have improved the ecological landscape, with Team Bahrain, led by the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, planting over 600,000 trees and expanding mangrove cultivation. This year's exhibition features, for the first time, a dedicated pavilion for mangrove trees, acknowledging their role in combating climate change and supporting biodiversity.
The Minister highlighted Bahrain's recognition by the Arab League, awarding the Ministry the Arab Government Excellence Award for its community empowerment initiative through agricultural training. Key government measures under royal directives include allocating land to Bahraini farmers and breeders, covering more than 1.2 million square metres, and establishing a plant genetic resources bank. An international dates observatory has also been launched in collaboration with the International Council for Dates in Saudi Arabia.
Minister Al Mubarak reiterated His Majesty's patronage in advancing a productive and sustainable agricultural and livestock sector. The event included traditional art presentations, equestrian displays from Bahrain and Azerbaijan, and cultural performances. HM the King awarded competition winners and supporting organisations, recognising the Royal Guard, participating companies, and regional partners for the exhibition's success.
At the conclusion, HM the King emphasized Bahrain's dedication to supporting the agricultural and livestock sectors as crucial to national development and food security. He commended government programs under the leadership of the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, focusing on agricultural and marine development. His Majesty also praised the Ministry's role in promoting innovation and modern technology for increased productivity and expressed appreciation for Azerbaijani equestrians, reflecting strong bilateral ties.
HM the King lauded Mara'ee 2025's continued success, its international participation, and its impact on local businesses and agricultural quality. He acknowledged the exhibition's cultural and recreational activities and thanked all contributors to its success.