Industry and Commerce Minister Dr. Hassan Abdulla Fakhro received here today the Russian Ambassador to Bahrain Victor Smirnov. The Minister expressed the government\'s appreciation of the efforts of the Russian Embassy in Bahrain and Ambassador Smirnov in consolidating bilateral relations and translating the joint agreements signed between the private sector sides in the two countries on the sidelines of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa\'s successful visit to Russia into the ground in order to upgrade them further, especially in the economic and investment fields. He pointed out that steps and initiatives to enhance economic relations will continue for the common interests of the two friendly peoples. The Russian Ambassador expressed his country\'s sincere appreciation of the efforts of the Government of Bahrain to boost joint economic cooperation, lauding the unprecedented and remarkable progress and urban boom currently witnessed by the kingdom as a result of the sound visions of the wise leadership and the government, which, he said, has entitled to be a distinguished investment and trade hub.