Bahrain has decided to reopen its embassy in Baghdad and appoint a new ambassador, it was announced.

His Majesty King Hamad gave his instructions as a token of support for Iraq, Foreign Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa said on Tuesday.

US President George W Bush praised the move saying it 'indicates a willingness to lead, as well as a willingness to send a signal that when a young democracy like Iraq is beginning to make progress, it is important for the neighbourhood to recognise that progress.'-TradeArabia News Service