MANAMA: Extremist groups in Bahrain have "sold their souls to become tools of destruction", warned the Premier and Deputy King yesterday. They stressed the vital role of loyal citizens in protecting society from them.

In another development, they reiterated a call to establish a GCC union - describing a much-awaited federation as the cherished hope of people in the region.

This came as His Royal Highness Primer Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa yesterday received Deputy King His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

They stressed the need to fast-track the project, being the safety net to deal with mounting regional political, economic and security challenges.

The two leaders reaffirmed strong resolve to continue the development march, stressing the vital importance of security and stability, deploring unfair media coverage, which ignores Bahrain's development strides.

They paid tribute to the security forces for their dedication in protecting national achievements, stressing the vital role of loyal citizens in protecting Bahrain's social fabric from extremism and sectarianism.

HRH the Premier invited the Deputy King to attend the wedding of his grandson Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Khalifa.