Unified Arab couter-terrorism media strategy urged

Manama, Apr. 19 (BNA): Information Minister Ali bin Mohammed Al Rumaihi has stressed Bahrain's constant keenness to boost the pan-Arab media work and enhance the role of mass media and telecommunication means in protecting the cultural and civilisational identity of the Arab nation. Speaking at a meeting today with Arab League Assistant Secretary General and Head of the Media and Telecommunication Sector Dr. Haifa Abu Ghazala, he pointed out the importance of a unified Arab strategy to boost economic and social development and combat extremism and terrorism. He also reviewed preparations for the 47th regular session of the Arab Information Ministers Council which will convene on May 25 and 26 at the Arab League headquarters, in Cairo, and which will be presided by Bahrain. The Information Minister and Dr. Haifa Abu Ghazala also discussed the main issues on the meeting's agenda, notably the modernisation of the media strategy, backing the Palestinian issue and boosting the role of the media in counter-terrorism. The Information Minister pointed out that the current challenges facing the Arab countries require a common and comprehensive vision to protect the Arab national security and carry out schemes to bolster media cooperation, activate a counter-terrorism media strategy, promote values of tolerance and moderation, fight the extremist ideology and confront defamatory campaigns. He urged to develop the Arab media content on the basis of responsible and professional freedom as well as work out legislative and executive mechanisms to foster commitment to Arab and international laws and conventions. Dr. Haifa thanked the Information Minister for the meeting, lauding his keenness on supporting pan-Arab media work for the best interest of Arab countries and their achievements.