Bahrain PM hails role of Press in Kingdom’s growth

Manama : Prime Minister HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa paid tribute yesterday to the journalists in Bahrain, praising their noble national role in defending the Kingdom and contributing to its growth and prosperity. 

The Premier was speaking while patronising at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel yesterday, a celebration marking Bahrain Press Day during which, winners of the first edition of Khalifa bin Salman Press Award were honoured.

The winners are Dr. Ibrahim Al Shaikh from Akhbar Al Khaleej, Sadaq Al Halwaji from Al Wasat newspaper, Ali Al Qemish from Al Ayam newspaper and Abdulrahman Tulifat from Bahrain News Agency (BNA). 

HRH Premier lauded the patriotic stance of the journalists in Bahrain and their efforts to foil all plots against the Kingdom. The Prime Minister commended the contribution of generations of creative journalists to laying the basis of a national press that is committed to the ethics of the profession. 

Prince Khalifa stressed the big strides made by Bahrain press, thanks to the climate of openness and freedom of expression fostered by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. 

The Prime Minister congratulated the prize laureates and expressed hope the award would serve as an incentive for the media and press staff. 

The Premier thanked the Information Ministry and the award jury for their efforts in assessing the participating works and deciding the winners.

Information Minister Ali bin Mohammed Al Rumaihi thanked the Prime Minister for patronising the ceremony, which, he said, reflects unwavering support to the press and media sector and keenness on responsible freedom of expression. 

The award winners thanked the Premier for patronising the event and for his interest in promoting media personnel.