A top Bahraini businessman called for economic empowerment of women in the kingdom.

Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry chairman Dr Essam Fakhro paid tribute to women for their contribution to national economic development, said a report in the Gulf Daily News (GDN), our sister publication.

He was speaking during a visit to the Business and Professional Women's Club, accompanied by board members, administrators and executives.

The delegation was welcomed by club chairwoman Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa and other members.

Commending the steadily-growing role of businesswomen, Dr Fakhro urged officials and private enterprises to support the newly-established club.

He vowed to step up co-operation with the club through the chamber-run support centre for small and medium enterprises.

He praised effective participation of Bahraini businesswomen in international gatherings, which reflected their success in reaching top positions.

He affirmed BCCI board's keenness on engaging businesswomen in all activities, including local, regional and international events.

"Bahraini women have proved their mettle as full partners in the society and national development in the prosperous era of His Majesty King Hamad," he said.

Shaikha Hind praised the chamber's role in stepping up co-operation and promoting community partnership.

She said the club aimed at providing training for Bahrainis in co-operation with government departments and civil society institutions.

The delegation toured the facility which provides training in cooking, photography, ceramics and pottery, calligraphy and handicrafts. - TradeArabia News Service