'Invest in Bahrain' forum presents 56 projects worth $1bn

Bahrain's Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Fakhro here on Wednesday said "Invest in Bahrain 2014" Forum seeks to present 56 projects to US investors worth about USD one billion.
In his opening speech, he added this year's edition of "Invest in Bahrain" represents an opportunity to present projects in the metal, plastics, glass panelling, aluminium as well as other small and medium industries.
He hailed his country's economic situation thanks to available advantages such as the low cost of standard of living and low rate of inflation.
Minister Fakhro added that Bahrain is targeted by foreign investors due to its attractive atmosphere, modern features, laws and solid systems that protect investors and guarantee the sustainability of their investments.
He added the industrial sector rose by 4.7 percent last year, indicating the foreign investments in Bahrain reached USD one billion last year and the total investments hit USD 18 billion, making up 55 percent of the country's GDP.
For his part, Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim Al Thani, Chairman of the Federation of the Chambers of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, confirmed that the private sectors could contribute to strengthening the GCC economic field.
He hailed Bahrain's continuing efforts to provide an appropriate environment and facilities for investors.
The forum is organized at the Bahrain International Exhibition by Ministry of Industry and Commerce, with the participation of more than 1200 investors from inside and outside Bahrain.