The streets of the Kingdom of Bahrain are adorned with flags of Arab countries, images of Arab leaders, and welcome banners in preparation for the Arab Summit set to take place in Bahrain on Thursday, May 16. Video clips from around the kingdom and its bridges show large banners featuring the image of King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa along with welcoming phrases for the summit guests. One of the banners reads, "Welcome to the guests of His Majesty the King in the Land of Arabism and Peace – Bahrain Summit," while others display the phrase "Bahrain is the Home of Arabs."
Large images have also been hung along some roads, each showcasing an Arab leader next to an image of the King of Bahrain, with the phrase "Welcome Leaders of the Nation to the Land of Arabism."
Preparatory meetings for the 33rd Arab Summit commenced in Manama yesterday, and the summit is expected to focus on the Israeli war on Gaza, Arab and regional relations, as well as economic issues. This anticipated summit is the first of its kind in the history of Bahrain regarding regular and emergency Arab summits.
