Manama, Nov. 23 (BNA): The Arabian Gulf Radio was officially launched this evening in Manama. Information Affairs Minister Ali bin Mohammed Al-Romaihi hailed the initiative which, he said, epitomizes strong fraternal and historic bonds between the GCC leaders and peoples and supports aspirations to achieve the Arabian Gulf Union.

He hailed "This is The Arabian Gulf Radio" which started transmission as Bahrain gears up to host the 37th GCC Summit next month. The launch ceremony was attended by GCC ambassadors and officials representing the Gulf radios, the GCC General-Secretariat, Gulf Radio and Television Corporation (GRTC) and the Radio and TV Production Corporation.

Addressing the ceremony, he said that the new radio would send a message of unity and reflect firm commitment to Arab and Islamic identity, and pride in the Arabic language and cultural and civilisational heritage.
He stressed the crucial importance of media in defending national security and stability, preserving development achievements and reflecting people's aspirations to building the Gulf Union.

He urged all GCC media community to be more vocal and project the Arabian Gulf heritage which represents a source of pride among other nations, stressing the importance of cooperation between all sectors in member states. The minister reiterated keenness on anchoring authentic Gulf values and promoting lofty professional standards, stressing commitment to responsible freedom, transparency and objectives.

He underscored the importance of affirming the Arab identity of the Gulf states and peoples and promoting the values of amity, tolerance, moderation and advocating a constructive media content towards serving political and economic unity and integration.

Al-Romaihi said that Bahrain, led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa, is keen on supporting the GCC joint march, citing historic, religious, linguistic and cultural bonds and shares destiny. He reiterated the ministry's commitment to backing the GCC media and supporting the Arabian Gulf Radio which makes its debut, relying on young talented specialists.