HM pays tributes to media professionals

Manama : His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa yesterday paid rich tributes to press and media professionals as the world celebrates the World Press Freedom Day today.

“Freedom of thought, expression and opinion, especially press freedom, constitute a fundamental component in human rights and civil, political, economic and cultural freedoms, an indicator of the progress of our Bahraini society and its openness, tolerance and acceptance of diverse opinions,” His Majesty the King said in his message to the media which is celebrating the World Press Freedom Day under the theme “Keeping Power in Check: Media, Justice and the Rule of Law”.

“This freedom is a true translation of our belief that constructive criticism and responsible freedom are a fundamental pillar of modernisation and economic and social progress,” HM said adding:“Our constitutional and legislative framework provides a protective shield for the freedom of expression.”

His Majesty reaffirmed pride in the achievements of national aspirations in consolidating the rule of law and institutions and encouraging responsible press and media freedoms for nearly two decades in line with the unprecedented support of the National Action Charter and the establishment of modern constitutional monarchy.

His Majesty thanked journalists, media figures, writers and thinkers for their constructive role in enriching enlightenment and creativity and strengthening the knowledge society within the context of our continuous progress towards consolidating democracy and sustainable development.

“The freedom of the press and the media has expanded on the basis of a long history of pioneers of thought and creativity and an integrated national system established by our modern constitution under advanced legislation, an independent and impartial judicial authority that safeguards freedoms and the establishment of justice and human rights institutions that carry out their responsibilities independently and effectively in the protection of human rights,” His Majesty the King said.

“The only restrictions are to ensure they observe professional and ethical standards, uphold the rule of law and respect international human rights charters and covenants,” His Majesty said, adding, “the government should implement the housing project for journalists and the development of a special work structure for media professionals that is commensurate with our appreciation of the nature of their duties and loyalty and their status as key partners in maintaining the security and stability of the country and strengthening our reform process.”

His Majesty also thanked the Ministry of Information Affairs for its efforts to develop the media and communication sector in cooperation with the National Communication Centre and the Bahrain Journalists Association. 

“The efforts should also include enhancing the aptitudes of Bahraini media professionals as our true assets on the road to progress and prosperity,” His Majesty the King said.