The Bahrain Press Club (BPC) launched its first overseas liaison office yesterday in Washington, D.C. at a reception attended by international media, think tanks, government representatives and NGOs. The event was held in the First Amendment Lounge at the National Press Club.
The BPC liaison office, housed in the National Press Building, serves as a direct connection to the Bahrain Press Club in Manama, Bahrain. A quasi-government organization in partnership with the Information Affairs Authority, the liaison office provides members with regular updates and accurate news from the Government of Bahrain, as well as access to senior government officials and decision makers.
“It’s fitting that we establish the first BPC liaison office in Washington, where we have such strong historic ties,” Sheikh Fawaz, president of the IAA, said. The club will provide the US community with firsthand access to Bahrain and will encourage the exchange of ideas and experiences necessary for fostering a better understanding of the region.
Beyond providing up-to-date information, the liaison office coordinates with the BPC in Manama to facilitate visa application. Additionally, the liaison office assists with obtaining work-related permits and press credentials for events in Bahrain.
“We are delighted to welcome the Bahrain Press Club to our home and expand our network of journalists around the world,” in an official statement National Press Club’s official said. The club’s liaison office will certainly help foster further understanding of events in Bahrain and build lasting relationships between American and Bahraini journalists.
The National Press Club is the United States pre-eminent organization for journalists and communications professionals. Established more than 100 years ago, the club supports ongoing improvements in the field of journalism and hosts renowned speakers from around the world. The Bahrain Press Club liaison office is scheduled to open in the National Press Club in August 2012. Club members will have access to all BPC and Gulf Cooperation Council events.