Manama: Ahmed bin Salman Al Musallam, Speaker of the Council of Representatives, underscored the crucial role of Bahrain's national press in promoting awareness, shaping public opinion, and maintaining professionalism and responsible freedom, under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Al Musallam highlighted World Press Freedom Day as an annual global event that honors the press and media professionals for their responsibilities and contributions as strategic partners in national progress and development. He praised the message from His Majesty the King on this occasion, celebrated annually on May 3, which emphasizes the values of peace, coexistence, and ethical media practices, especially amid rapid technological change.
The Speaker reiterated that responsible press freedom is a foundation of progressive societies, sustainable development, and a prosperous future. He noted that this year's theme, 'A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis,' underscores the importance of adhering to ethical and professional standards when utilizing artificial intelligence in journalism to protect human rights, community values, and individual privacy.
He also commended the Ministry of Information, the Bahrain Journalists Association (BJA), and media institutions for their dedication to upholding professionalism, promoting national identity, fostering loyalty, protecting the right to knowledge, and supporting journalistic talent and training in collaboration with academic institutions.
Al Musallam further highlighted the significance of this year's occasion coinciding with the BJA's silver jubilee, marking 25 years since its establishment as the first professional body representing Bahraini journalism. He expressed Parliament's appreciation for the national press's role in covering the legislative authority's work and communicating it to both domestic and international audiences, emphasizing the press's commitment to professional ethics and its role as a true reflection of Bahraini society and its aspirations.
In conclusion, Al Musallam emphasized the legislature's commitment to advancing media-related legislation that supports responsible freedom of expression and reinforces the achievements of Bahrain's longstanding press.