Bahrain

In 1783, the al-Khalifa family captured Bahrain from the Persians. In order to secure these holdings, it entered into a series of treaties with the UK during the 19th century that made Bahrain a British protectorate. The archipelago attained its independence in 1971. Bahrain's small size and central location among Persian Gulf countries require it to play a delicate balancing act in foreign affairs among its larger neighbors. Facing declining oil reserves, Bahrain has turned to petroleum processing and refining and has transformed itself into an international banking center. King HAMAD bin Isa al-Khalifa, after coming to power in 1999, pushed economic and political reforms to improve relations with the Shia community. Shia political societies participated in 2010 parliamentary and municipal elections. Al Wifaq, the largest Shia political society, won the largest number of seats in the elected chamber of the legislature. However, Shia discontent has resurfaced in recent years with street demonstrations and occasional low-level violence.

PR: 7	Home - The official site of Bahrain Economic Development Board DescriptionBahrain is the most business-friendly location in the GCC and the best-regulated financial centre in the Middle East, with an exceptionally ... - Read more 0 Reviews. Rating: Total Votes: 0 http://www.bahrain.com

PR: 7	Welcome to Bahrain International Airport Presents information about the airport and services offered. - Read more 0 Reviews. Rating: Total Votes: 0 http://www.bahrainairport.com

PR: 7	Bahrain Tourism Range of information on Bahrain including its national parks, accommodations, museums, and tourist attractions. - Read more 0 Reviews. Rating: Total Votes: 0 http://www.bahraintourism.com

PR: 6	Embassy of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the United States Information about the consulate, diplomats and country including its history and geography, people and culture, education, business and government. - Read more 0 Reviews. Rating: Total Votes: 0 http://www.bahrainembassy.org