Mohammed bin Rashid emphasises media's crucial role in facing challenges

DUBAI, 1st July, 2015 (WAM) - UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum received today editors-in-chief of local newspapers, national media leaders, representatives of Arab and international news agencies, press and TV channels, operating in the UAE.

Present at the Ramadan evening, organised by the Dubai Government Media Office, were H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Incorporated, Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of State and Chairman of the Board of National Media Council (NMC), Mona Ghanim Al Marri, Director General of Dubai Government Media Office and Sheikh Waleed Al Ibrahim, Chairman of the MBC Group.

Sheikh Mohammed welcomed the media personalities and exchanged greetings on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan.

The Vice president said the responsibility of media towards the Arab community is increasing day by day with the growing challenges facing the region. He urged the media to adhere to professional integrity, objectivity, and accuracy in reporting news about regional developments.

"We want a media that builds and helps people achieve a better future for the current and future generations, a media that drives creativity in all walks of life," he said.

Sheikh Mohammed went on to say that media should not only inform, but also educate and strive to reach areas where knowledge and cultural resources are scarce.

"There is no question that books are the prime source of enlightenment. Yet, the rapid development in media technology has contributed in expanding sources of information," he stated.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed appreciation for the role played by the media in the UAE in reflecting the progress of the country's ambitious development drive. He called on the different media organisations to nurture Emirati talents in media fields and to provide proper training to them and ensure their development.

Sheikh Mohammed engaged in talks with the members of the media community about political, economic and sports topics.

Members of the media expressed their delight at meeting Sheikh Mohammed and benefitting from his ideas and vision in all fields. They also lauded his humanitarian and charitable initiatives, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, and commended the UAE government's approach in providing means of happiness to the people.