Media must ensure accuracy, professionalism

Sharjah / WAM

Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of State, Chairman of the National Media Council (NMC) has said that UAE media’s and government communications services’ strategy is based on close cooperation in line with national values, so as to contribute to the achievement of sustainable development and happiness of society.
Speaking at the International Government Communication Forum, which began in Sharjah on Sunday, in the presence of HH Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and senior officials and employees of the UAE’s government communications and Information services, he highlighted the important role played by the media, as the UAE embarks on a new phase of progress and development under the wise leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and their Highnesses, the Members of the Supreme Council of the Federation and Rulers of the Emirates.
Speaking on the future of media in the UAE, Al Jaber said, “We must focus on constant development of the media in line with our national principles. Within a framework of responsible freedom, media organisations need to take steps to ensure accuracy and professionalism, align their operations with rapid technological advancements, and strengthen the nation.”
He said the media and government communications services are essential tools for society to achieve its goals, adding that the nation’s media had an important role to play and a responsibility to present an accurate picture of the country’s values and traditions, and its vision for the future. He stressed that the National Media Council constantly seeks to strengthen and support the media and the dissemination of knowledge and empowerment of individuals to enable them to contribute to improving society.
He explained that direct channels between the media and government departments are required in order to establish trust between journalists and officials, as well as enabling the national media to play an active role in disseminating government news and information to citizens.
The Minister of State stressed that the UAE media reflects the nation’s values, including moderation, tolerance and openness to the cultures of the world and respect for others. He pointed out the important role played by the media in the fight against extremism and destructive ideas that fuel terrorism.
Al Jaber highlighted the media’s vital role in explaining the rapid changes taking place in the region, and the need for it to become not only a tool to spread news, but also a vanguard in protecting society and reinforcing the UAE’s traditional values of tolerance and respect.
He thanked the media for supporting peace, security, safety and stability. The media, he said, embodies the highest sense of national unity, and helps cement the relationship between the leadership and the people.
Dr. Al Jaber stressed that the values of openness and cooperation are not just slogans in the UAE, pointing out that the nation is host to more than 100 nationalities who live, work, and coexist in peace with each other. These values are also reflected in the media sector, where the UAE embraces hundreds of media organisations and thousands of journalists from around the world.