HM King Hamad lauds press freedom, media status

Manama, May 2 (BNA): His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has reiterated full support to the rights of journalists and media personnel in performing their noble duty and expressing their opinions freely, independently and responsibly in accordance with the constitution as well as national and international legislations and covenants. In a message marking World Press Freedom Day, HM the King praised the key role of journalists and media figures in fostering patriotism and supporting reform and development plans. He added that directives had been given to relevant authorities to issue a professional structure for the media personnel that matches their vital role in enriching Bahrain's media progress, protecting national security, stability and integrity and consolidating hard-won achievements. HM King Hamad lauded the efforts of the Information Ministry and all press and media institutions for their remarkable role in keeping abreast of modern technologies and cooperating with regional and international media. He underlined support to the Supreme Authority for Information and Communication in performing its pivotal role to boost freedom, pluralism, independence and professional values. HM the King emphasised that since launching modernisation reforms, freedom of expression, including free and independent press, has represented the core of democratic development within the framework of the rule of law, respect of human rights, justice and equality. He said the media progress in Bahrain has witnessed a remarkable progress on comprehensive and developed bases that elevated Bahrain to an advanced international status in providing optimum and high-tech telecommunication services. HM the King asserted that freedom of press is guaranteed by the constitution, pointing out the role of the judiciary and the National Institution for Human Rights in promoting justice and accountability for all. He added that legal rights and the principles of justice place journalists and media persons before their national and moral responsibilities in backing civil peace, renouncing calls for sedition and hatred, raising public awareness and confronting fallacies and rumours. HM King Hamad underscored the need to adhere to the principles of responsible freedom by taking into consideration accuracy, objectivity, honesty and the high national interests. He urged the media to promote national reconciliation and unity, stressing resolve to continue developing the media system structurally, administratively and legislatively, as an integral part of the continuous reform process. HM the king hailed the efforts of Bahrain Journalists Association and other media-related civil society institutions in bolstering the media momentum in Bahrain. He also paid tribute to Bahraini women who proved their special merit in the press and media field by taking top-profile executive, administrative and media posts. HM the King called anew for concerted national, regional and international efforts to boost sustainable development and promote inter-cultural and religious dialogue and co-existence. He also underscored the need to adhere to international laws and covenants in facing extremist calls inciting violence, terrorism, hatred and discrimination in order to ensure people's right to live in secure, stable and prosperous communities.