Media cooperation for tolerance, moderation emphasized

Manama, Dec 6 (BNA): Information and Parliament Affairs Minister Isa bin Abdulrahman Al-Hammadi underlined the importance of strengthening joint Arab media cooperation for the promotion of tolerance, moderation and national values. The minister said that the Arab media should undertake its responsibility in the fight against violence, terrorism, and the rejection of provoking sectarianism, hatred and extremism in all their forms. This came as the minister today received the Arab States Broadcasting Union (ASBU) President Mohammad Alawash. Ways of enhancing joint cooperation and exchanging expertise between the two sides for the development of audiovisual media were discussed. The two sides also discussed the exchange of news and information, as well as strengthening cooperation in vocational training programs and rehabilitation of media cadres. The minister reviewed bolstering the commitment of Arab radio and television channels to the Arab Media Code of Ethics for 2007, which deepens the spirit of tolerance, rejects prejudice and discrimination and refrain from broadcasting material that could constitute incitement to violence, terrorism and extremism. It also promotes principles of objectivity, impartiality and credibility, and the respect for the dignity of nations, their leaders, symbols, people and sovereignty. Alawash praised the minister's interest in supporting the march of the GCC and Arab media work.