More Gulf joint ventures, not only limited to the industrial sector but extending to other areas, are the need of the hour, said a top Bahrain government official.

The Premier's Adviser for Industry and Oil Affairs Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, who is also GPIC chairman, said this during his inaugural address at the ninth International Chemistry in Industry Conference and Exhibition (ChemIndix 2013) being held at the Gulf Hotel's Gulf Convention Centre, reported the Gulf Daily News, our sister publication.

Being held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the conference is organised by the Chemical Society's Division of Chemical Sciences in Saudi Arabia under the theme "Energy Transformation: Feasibility to Sustainability".

"The realisation of Gulf unity has become an urgent demand, not only for regional leaders but also for the people of the Gulf states," Shaikh Isa said.

Lauding the annual event which attracts large numbers of scientists and researchers in chemistry and its applications in industry, he highlighted the key facilities provided for this event.

Shaikh Isa praised the outstanding role played by the kingdom in hosting major events and conferences.

The success of such events make the kingdom the destination of choice for hosting Arab, regional and international conferences and exhibitions, he added.

He also lauded efforts of the organisers. He added that this was a demonstration of the depth of brotherly relationship among GCC states.

He considered the GPIC as a model example of the success of joint co-operation given that the company has made significant successes in more than three decades.-TradeArabia News Service