The march of reform and modernisation initiative in Bahrain by His Majesty King Hamad is irreversible.

His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander, yesterday made the pledge as he received Lord Astor of Hever.

'The process which started with the launch of the National Action Charter will never come to a halt in all sectors,' he said.

He described Bahrain as the land of tolerance and co-existence, beyond any sectarianism.

'We are all Bahrainis. Our national unity between all social sections is our best asset,' he said, lauding friendly relations bonding Bahrain and Britain.

Lord Astor stressed his country's stance in support of Bahrain's efforts to launch a multiparty national dialogue, so that the kingdom could overcome the current impasse and pursue its development.

He also reiterated Britain's support for any steps taken by the political leadership in Bahrain to avert extremism, dissension and re-assert legitimacy.

Foreign Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Economic Development Board chief executive officer Shaikh Mohammed bin Essa Al Khalifa, Crown Prince's Court chief Shaikh Khalifa bin Daij Al Khalifa and British Ambassador Jamie Bowden were present during the meeting at Riffa Palace.-TradeArabia News Service