By Baron Henri Estramant.
The newly accredited ambassador of the Kingdom of Bahrain to The Netherlands, Ms Alice Samaan, hosted a reception on the eve of Bahrain’s National Day in London where she is based to celebrate her homeland’s 43rd National Day.
Bahrain’s National Day is celebrated on 16 December every year. Celebrations in the country reminisce the population of the foundation of the modern state in 1783 by Sheikh Ahmed the Conqueror of the clan of Khalifa, which still rules over the islands (Al Khalifa). The date also commemorates Bahrain’s accession as a full UN Member State 43 years ago as well as 15 years of reign for His Majesty King Hamad II of Bahrain.
Celebrations throughout the kingdom are arranged by the country’s Ministry of Culture led by Sheikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa since 2008. These are presided over in Manama by the country’s monarch, his uncle and Prime Minister Prince Khalifa as well as Crown Prince Salman. King Hamad II is normally escorted by other two sons, Colonel Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa and his younger brother Major Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
Albeit diplomatic relations between Bahrain and The Netherlands are handled by the former’s mission in London, consular matters are dealt with through Bahrain’s embassy in Brussels. The Royal Dutch Embassy in Kuwait City handles relations with the Kingdom of Bahrain.
