Ministries and government departments told to fast-track payments
Manama: Ministries and government departments have been told to fast-track payments to companies, contractors and suppliers in the period stipulated in their contracts.
Chairing the weekly Cabinet meeting, His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa gave directives to avoid bureaucratic routine and commit to the government-led policy of paying on time.
Bahraini companies and contractors will be given the opportunity to engage in government-led projects, based on the principles of fairness and competitiveness, he said.
The Premier instructed ministries to ensure investment opportunities generated by their projects benefit Bahraini citizens.
The Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning Ministry was directed to fast-track payments of compensation to those whose land and properties were appropriated for public interest.
The draft executive regulations governing implementation of the law on the Value-Added Tax (VAT) were referred to the ministerial committee for legal affairs to be scrutinised.
The proposed regulations, which were presented by Finance Minister Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, clarify provisions, rules and procedures relating to the tax’s calculation, payment and scope of implementation.
A memorandum of understanding laying the foundations for friendship between Manama and the city of Hangzhou in China was discussed.
Interior Minister Lieutenant General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa outlined the memo which aims at strengthening co-operation in logistics, transportation, finance and information technology, said Cabinet secretary general Dr Yasser Al Nasser.
The Cabinet hailed His Majesty King Hamad’s visit to Saudi Arabia on Saturday and his talks with Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
The Premier underlined the importance of such high-profile visits in strengthening Bahrain’s ties with Saudi Arabia.
