Bahrain's national dialogue kicks off

Source :  Xinhua | English.news.cn

MANAMA, Feb. 10(Xinhua) -- Bahrain's much-awaited National Consensus Dialogue started on Sunday with the participation of major political societies including the opposition groups.

Sunday's session aimed to achieve a final agenda that will give shape to the crucial talks aimed to end the political stalemate in the Arab country.

Bahraini Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa welcomed all participants of the dialogue, which include representatives of political societies and legislative authorities as well as some independents.

The minister also expressed his confidence in a successful outcome, a further political consensus that will reinforce Bahrain 's national achievements.

Major opposition groups present at the session were Shiite Al Wefaq National Islamic Society, Al Ekha National Society and National Democratic Action Society, as well as Sunni National Unity Assembly, National Action Charter Society and Al Menbar National Islamic Society.

In the meantime, some opposition groups staged a rally in Sitra when the second round of talks was opened.

Scores of protesters marched carrying the Bahraini flag demanding democracy and freedom.