In Bahrain, thousands of protesters are camping at Pearl Square in capital Manama as country's crown prince is leading efforts to launch a dialogue with the opposition. Talks have not started yet despite several political and economic concessions by government as opposition groups want to see a commitment to an elected government first. Bahrain's Social Development Minister, Fatima Al-Balooshi has said that the government is interested in dialogue but a small minority in Bahrain prevented talks. Bahrain's opposition reiterated its demands for major reforms, which include a commitment to an elected government first while a government insists that all issues can be discussed only on negotiating table. In Yemen, reports quoting hospital officials say that two protesters were killed in anti-government protests in the town of Sadrin southern Yemen. Witnesses said security forces fired tear gas and shot at hundreds of protesters, and the demonstrators responded by setting three of their vehicles on fire. Students and pro-democracy demonstrators have been camping at a square near Sanaa University asking President Saleh to step down who is in power for more than 32 years. In Oman, government supporters and opponents demonstrated in the Omani capital Muscat, with protesters demanding jobs and political reforms while government supporters took part in a long parade of cars. Government has already announced nearly 15000 rupees monthly unemployment allowance and made changes in cabinet in an attempt to calm the protestors.
News On AIR | March 3, 2011 8:43 AM
Bahrain crown prince leading efforts to launch dialogue with opposition