HRH Premier lauds role of press in development

Manama, May 6 (BNA): His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa stressed the importance of responsible freedom of expression in building nations and strengthening their pillars, given its influential role in raising social awareness and boosting of freedom of opinion. His Royal Highness noted that the Bahraini press is witnessing a prosperous era in terms of freedom and openness thanks to the remarkable role of journalists and writers in enlightening the public opinion and tackling national issues. He said the Bahraini press sets a model in awareness and responsibility by showing an unflinching commitment to defending the homeland and its stability, promoting national unity and preserving the Bahraini identity. His Royal Highness the Prime Minister affirmed that press and media freedom, in the prosperous era of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, has reached an unprecedented level through constitutional and legal provisions that raise the value of freedom of opinion and expression as one of the most important pillars of nation-building and modernity. He said the royal care for the press has contributed to its improvement and paved the way for journalists and media professionals to exercise their mission in a climate of responsible democracy that puts the supreme interest of the nation at the forefront of priorities. Marking Bahrain Press Day, which is observed on May 7, HRH the Premier underlined the key role played by the press as a platform for thought and enlightenment, a window of knowledge and a means to handle national and international issues. He hailed the efforts of journalists, media persons, writers and columnists in preserving national achievements and bolstering the kingdom’s growth and stability. He also praised the pivotal role of journalists and media persons in defending the homeland against defamatory and disinformation campaigns.. His Royal Highness called on the press and mass media to work on founding a common culture to further consolidate values of tolerance and pluralism in the Bahraini society, and to harness the effective power of the press and means of social communication in all that serves the growth of the homeland and supports its stability. HRH the Prime Minister also stressed the need to be cautious of misusing social media websites, warning of the danger they could pose and their impact on the morals and values of the community by disseminating rumours and lies aimed at undermining national security and stability and social cohesion. His Royal Highness stressed that freedom of opinion and expression is guaranteed by the constitution, noting that freedom should be used to enhance national development and modernization. He called on all to stand united against threats to national unity and social cohesion, stressing openness and freedom as key players in fostering interdependence, tolerance and pluralism. HRH noted that the tremendous progress in information and communication technology has opened new horizons for the press to grow and flourish, which increases the scope of its responsibilities in maintaining its credibility and professionalism. He urged the government bodies to respond quickly and constructively to all issues raised by the press and to work with the press to enhance the role of the media in performing its noble mission in serving the country and citizens. His Royal Highness underscored the role of the press in backing the development efforts, pointing out professionalism and positivity of the Bahraini press in shaping the community’s conscience and serving national interests. His Royal Highness praised the Bahraini Journalists Association and its efforts to upgrade the press profession, develop its cadres and defend their interests. He underlined the government's support to it and all other professional associations to enhance partnership with civil society establishments aimed at serving national development and progress. He also praised contribution of the first generation of journalists and media persons, stressing their efforts in laying strong foundations for professional and objective press and media approach.