King hails national press

Manama, Dec.2 (BNA): His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa today received a letter from Information and Parliament Affairs Minister Isa bin Abdulrahman Al-Hammadi marking the signing of the Charter of Press Ethics by the editors-in-chief of the local newspapers. Initiated by the Ministry of Information and Parliament Affairs, the deontological code, signed by the editors-in-chief, endorses values and principles that stem from the constitution and the National Action Charter, in compliance with the international press as well as media and human rights conventions. HM the King thanked the minister and all the press community for the good initiative, hailing the long-standing role of the fourth estate since early 1930s. He commended the outstanding role of the national press which, he said, documents the landmark achievements of the Kingdom of Bahrain and its loyal and dedicated people. He underlined the strides of Bahrain press which enjoys today freedom of expression and opinion, commending all journalists and columnists for raising key issues which serve the interests of the country and its citizens. "The Charter of Press Ethics reflects keenness on promoting the fourth estate to continue its crucial role in enlightening the public opinion and raising all political, economic and social issues", he said, reiterating his unwavering support to the press and journalists and wishing them success.