Al Rumaihi calls for GCC media cooperation

Manama: Minister of Information Affairs Ali bin Mohammed Al Rumaihi has stressed on the importance of enhancing media cooperation in the Gulf Cooperation Council.

Minister Al Rumaihi emphasised the pivotal role of the regional media in taking GCC a step ahead from the cooperation phase to a more solid and cohesive Gulf Union.

He was addressing the 24th meeting of GCC Information Ministers, held here under the chairmanship of the Saudi Culture and Information Minister Dr Adel bin Zaid Al Turaifi.

Minister Al Rumaihi voiced pride in participating in the key meeting following his recent appointment to his post in Bahrain, noting that he is looking forward to activating the GCC media cooperation for the best interest of GCC countries and citizens.

The security and economic challenges currently faced by the Arab region and the increasing threats of ideological extremism require increased role of
GCC media in strengthening their stability, Al Rumaihi said.

It also requires stepping up collective efforts and joint coordination to counter media campaigns and clarify facts at the regional and international arenas, he added.

The Minister also lauded the third meeting of GCC Information Ministers in Riyadh, and emphasised its importance in enhancing joint media action, consolidating the integrity of the GCC society and highlighting humanitarian efforts aimed at alleviating the sufferings of brotherly Yemeni people.

He underlined his commitment to enhancing partnership among media establishments to maintain the Arab and Islamic identity of GCC countries, hold dialogue among religions and cultures and denunciation of calls for  incitement to extremism.

Minister Al Rumaihi invited GCC Information Ministers to attend the opening of the 14th Gulf Radio and Television Festival, to be hosted by the Kingdom on March 14, adding that the kingdom welcomes hosting the annual fraternal festival that brings together GCC and Arab media leaders.