Bahraini Ambassador to France Dr. Nasser Al-Balooshi has affirmed the deep-rooted solid ties bonding the Kingdom and France. He also reiterated the two friendly countries’ joint desire to strengthen their partnership and exchange investments, highlighting the distinguished strategic location enjoyed by Bahrain which, he said, has entitled it to be a major regional economic hub and a gate to the GCC market. In a statement he delivered as he attended the dinner banquet hosted by BFC marking its acquisition of the French company, COMPIN Front Ends & Composites, the Ambassador lauded the successful strides made by BFG International group which, he said, reflects the development and growth witnessed by the industrial sector in the kingdom. The banquet was attended by a number of French MPs and senators, Arab and Foreign Ambassadors accredited to France, heads and directors of major companies, such as Alstom and Bombardier, key personalities and media professionals. The Diplomatic Adviser to French Transportation Minister Philippe Dumont highlighted the importance of foreign investments in France, noting that BFG’s move will generate new job opportunities and enhance bilateral cooperation. He described the move made by the Managing Director of BFG International Dr. Samer Al-Jishi, as an ambitious one that will develop Bahraini industry and expand BFG’s international operations, adding that France welcomes and supports foreign investments. The Special Adviser to French Industry Minister Christophe Bejach said that his country was interested in bolstering cooperation with Arab countries. He praised His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s historic visit to France shortly after the election of President François Hollande, expressing his country’s desire to enhance trade and investment exchange with Bahrain. Regarding the Managing Director of Alstom Transport company Jérôme Wallut, he asserted the French industrial sector’s pride in cooperating with BFG International. Managing Director of BFG International Dr. Samer Al-Jishi said that the banquet was an opportunity to celebrate Bahraini-French relation and his company’s successful investment. He added that the acquisition allows BFG International to strengthen its market position in Europe and its relationships with the major operators.