Leadership's support to journalism, media praised

Manama, May 7 (BNA): Bahrain Journalists Association (BJA) extended sincerest thanks and respect to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier for their tremendous support to freedom of opinion and expression and care for journalists. In a statement marking Bahrain Press Day, which is observed on May 7, BJA affirmed that Bahrain is reaping the fruit of the leadership’s support to journalism, in particular, and freedom of opinion and expression, in general, being an important pillar in the comprehensive development march spearheaded by HM the King. It added that the reform process has ushered in a new phase of conscious journalism that is launched with integrity and responsibility, believing in the importance of the role of fair word, objective opinions and free national pens in supporting the process of building and development. “The word and pen possess great power and wide influence, which requires all Bahraini journalists to place the supreme interest of the country above all considerations.” BJA also commended continuous support of HRH the Premier to journalists and his constant keenness to open all horizons of creativity for them to continue their constructive role and remain a strong pillar of social cohesion and national unity. It praised HRH the Prime Minister’s message marking Bahrain Press Day in which he lauded contribution of Bahrain press to defending the kingdom’s security and promoting national work. BJA pointed out that free press is one of the most important features of Bahrain’s democracy and one of the most important pillars of positive social mobility. It has contributed considerably to protecting national achievements in this prosperous era, and still continues to play a vital and effective role in the development process. The association asserted that the media persons and journalists have always been up to the responsibility as they enrich the national scene with their creative work, raise public awareness, promote culture and enhance awareness of internal and external challenges and ways of overcoming them wisely and effectively. BJA lauded the immense efforts made by the media and press community in Bahrain during the coronavirus pandemic that hit the world, pointing out that the press and media in the Kingdom of Bahrain showed a great responsibility and played their role effectively. It pledged to continue boosting professional work and preserving the free and independent journalistic environment. It congratulated all journalists and media persons on Bahrain Press Day, wishing them more success.