Key agreements to be signed during king Hamad's historic visit to China

The Kingdom of Bahrain and the People's Republic of China are all set to sign key agreements in the areas of education, health, cultural and investment. This will be during the landmark visit by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to China from September 14-16, that will bring the two countries together. " I am fully confident that the first ever trip by His Majesty King Hamad will strengthen ties between both sides and open new channels of cooperation at several levels," stated Chinese Ambassador to Bahrain Li Chen. The diplomat said the " historic state visit," by His Majesty King Hamad follows after the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping. He said during three day visit His Majesty King Hamad will meet top leaders in Shanghai. " Besides the official meetings with top leaders from both sides in Shanghai, His Majesty King Hamad will also visit Ningxia where the first China-Arab State Expo will be held that aims to boost trade between China and Arab Countries including the GCC." Mr Chen said key agreements in the areas of education, health, cultural and investment will be signed during the state visit earlier next week. On the economic front, the diplomat said trade volume between Bahrain and China reached over $1.550 billion with increasing areas of growth. " The Bahrain- China bilateral trade is growing at a rapid pace with big scope of investment for both sides. Currently the trade volume witnessed growth of 28 per cent and is still increasing." He said China exported scores of products ranging from electronics, textiles, automobiles, furniture and other items while imported from Bahrain petrochemical and aluminium products. " This visit will help promote bilateral ties and usher new growth for both sides." " I feel that throughout this state visit several Chinese companies will be able to establish a foothold in the region." " Bahrain and China have always enjoyed a smooth cordial relation without any problem, and this visit will seal our friendship for years to come." According to latest figures, trade between China and Arab countries increased 14 per cent year on year to a record high of 222.4 billion dollars last year. China's exports to Arab countries totaled 91.3 billion dollars, while imports amounted to 131.1 billion dollars.