The Bahrain Journalists’ Association (BJA) has extended deepest thanks and appreciation to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa marking the World Press Freedom Day, observed worldwide on May 3, praising the royal keynote message on the occasion.
BJA asserted that the kingdom’s celebration of the World Press Freedom Day reflects the distinguished role and status of the local press, as well as the landmark achievements it has attained at the Arab and international levels thanks to the royal interest and support.
BJA indicated that HM the King’s message increases the responsibility of local newspapers in spreading awareness, promoting enlightened thought and projecting the real civilisational image of the kingdom as an advanced role model for protecting rights and freedoms.
BJA affirmed that HM King Hamad’s ongoing interest and unlimited support have contributed to improving the level of the local press over the past years, adding that the royal message on the occasion is an incentive for journalists to carry on undertaking their national tasks with impartiality, professionalism, dedication and sincerity.
It affirmed that local newspapers will always play their national role and be an essential partner to Team Bahrain in supporting the recovery plans launched by the government, led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, adding that they will continue playing their role, as partners to the National Medical Taskforce for Combating Coronavirus (COVID-19), in order to raise awareness and contribute to overcoming the effects of the pandemic so as to consolidate the kingdom’s status as an international role model.
BJA commended HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister’s close follow-up on the issues raised by local newspapers and directives to address them.
It confirmed the success of the local press and official media in meeting the requirements of digital development through disseminating credible information quickly, accurately and professionally.
BJA affirmed that freedom of opinion and expression is a major pillar of the kingdom’s democratic process, established by HM the King since HM’s Accession to the Throne, noting that the freedom and openness atmosphere enjoyed by the kingdom has promoted responsible freedom of expression to which local newspapers are committed through placing top national interests above all considerations.
