Chamber backs move to protect economy

 

6 May 2010
Source : DIFC (  By NOOR TOORANI )

BAHRAIN's largest private sector body yesterday supported a move to exclude non-Muslims from a nationwide alcohol ban.

MPs had hoped for a complete alcohol ban, but the Shura Council amended their original bill so that non-Muslims would still be able to drink in designated places and in their homes.

Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) chairman Dr Essam Fakhro yesterday announced the organisation's backing for the council proposal.

"Despite all the reasons and excuses that surfaced during negotiations on the bill in parliament and Shura Council, the amendment stating non-Muslims be excluded from the ban is a good step forward," he said in a statement.

"The chamber and private sector completely support the move because it clearly shows Bahrain's openness to other cultures and values," he said.

Dr Fakhro also said the council's amendments to the bill were objective and took into consideration Bahrain's diverse culture.

"The amendments are objective and balanced because they take into consideration Bahrain's deep-rooted cultural identity," he said.

"This adds to the requirements of openness in Bahrain and its impact on the country's economic and competitive status."

Mr Fakhro also dismissed earlier accusations that the chamber was against Bahrain's Islamic culture, saying its earlier opposition to a complete alcohol ban was based on the impact it would have on business.

Dr Fakhro also maintained that a blanket ban on alcohol would do serious damage to the economy.

"We have been following the ban since it was first proposed and we don't want the chamber's initial stance to be misunderstood.

"We are not against Islamic and Bahraini traditions, but our initial approach on the matter was based on businesses and investment climate.

"If that bill had gone through (completely banning alcohol) it would have harmed the economy.

"Bahrain has been for a long time, and still is, a symbol of openness and tolerance, while still upholding Islamic values."