Those attempting to drive wedges and sow rancour in society will never succeed because citizens are conscientious and loyal to the nation, he said as he received senior officials, scholars, clerics, journalists and citizens.

Shura Council chairman Ali Saleh Al Saleh and his parliament counterpart Khalifa Al Dhahrani were present.

HRH the Premier called on all parties to highlight the image of the "closely-knit people" through their words and actions. "We all belong to the same motherland under His Majesty's leadership," he said, paying tribute to loyal Bahrainis for their patriotism and resolve to serve national interests as well as keenness to preserve unity.

He also hailed Bahraini families for turning their majlises into platforms to strengthen national unity and social relations.

HRH the Premier highlighted the Press' role in strengthening social bonds and preserving Bahraini and Arab values and traditions, reiterating government support to help it assume its noble missions.