Press freedom in Bahrain a milestone: Minister

Manama: Free and responsible press is a pillar to boost awareness, disseminate noble humanitarian values and promote the development and democratic progress, said Information Minister Ali bin Mohammed Al Rumaihi yesterday.

Marking Bahrain Press Day, celebrated on May 7, the Minister paid tribute to the press and media staff for their commitment to the constitution and law as well as to the charters of press and media ethics.

He lauded their national contribution as key partners in maintaining Bahrain’s security as well as maximising the Kingdom’s development and civilisational achievements.

“Press and media freedom has been a milestone in Bahrain’s democratic scene since the launch of the National Action Charter (NAC) and the inception of the reform and modernisation era,” he said, pointing out the importance of the independent press as a human right. Commending the royal address marking the World Press Freedom Day, he said, “It reflects the keenness of HM the King on ensuring media exercise their role within a more advanced legislative and organisational atmosphere.”

The Minister underlined the Ministry’s commitment to following up on the implementation of the royal directives through cooperation with the Civil Service Bureau (CSB), the Housing Ministry and Bahrain Journalists Association (BJA) concerning the media professionals’ cadre and the journalists’ housing project.

He also noted the Ministry’s plan to continue grooming the national media personnel and boosting the professional competence through specialised workshops held in cooperation with international media institutions.

Al Rumaihi reiterated the commitment of the Bahraini media to continue exercising its role in fostering national unity and security, supporting Arab and Islamic issues.