Information Minister interacts directly with public via blog

Manama, Sept. 30 (BNA): Information Affairs Minister Isa Abdulrahman Al Hammadi will, starting October 1, directly communicate with the public about numerous topics related to current media issues via the eGovernment Blog on Bahrain.bh "Developing the media sector in Bahrain", the major topic to be discussed by the minister within the electronic blog, is aligned with the country’s set policies based on creating an open environment for others. “We, at the Information Affairs Ministry, believe in the importance of communication with the public as it is the backbone of the ministry and the root of its services and outcomes," Al Hammadi said. "The eGovernment blog is the ministry’s new window that allows the acknowledgement of people’s opinions and suggestions. It is based on the keenness to enhance the concepts of interaction and participation." The ministry took the responsibility to develop direct efficient communication between the ministry and national media concerned stakeholders - an initiative that was reflected by the weekly meetings, which the minister personally conducts with directors and officials from various governmental entities. The initiative is in addition to the media council that the minister holds to review the most significant news that emerge locally and internationally, thus reinforcing the establishment of strong relationships amongst a number of bodies. The minister also holds regular meetings with editors in chief and journalists on the local and international levels. The blog represents an opportunity for the public to communicate with the minister and the Information Affairs Ministry encourages people to submit their enquiries and suggestions regarding media affairs. Those wishing to interact with the minister through the blog can log onto www.bahrain.bh The blog is one of the channels that aim to activate electronic communication in order to improve the concept of participation and enable citizens to interact more quickly with decision-makers. It is a unique platform that has witnessed the participation of several ministries and senior officials from diverse sectors and governmental agencies. They include Health Minister Sadiq Abdulkarim Al Shehabi, Education Minister Majid bin Ali Al Nuaimi, Former Social Development Minister Fatima bint Mohammed Al Bloushi and eGovernment Authority CEO Mohamed Ali Al Qaed.