AMMAN (JT) - CNN is to take an unprecedented step this week by hosting the first-ever live broadcast from inside the ancient city of Petra, one of the world's most famous tourist destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, according to a statement released on Wednesday.
With the support of the ministries of tourism and information and communications technology, Petra's world famous Treasury will be illuminated on Friday night for a live telecast to viewers all over the world.
CNN anchor Hala Gorani will co-host a special live edition of "Eye on the Middle East" with Jim Clancy in Beirut.
As a conclusion to CNN's special week of live programming from the region, the Friday evening programme will see the Treasury of the ancient capital of the Nabataean civilisation dramatically lit for the night-time transmission, the statement said.
"For 25 years, CNN has provided its viewers with unique and exclusive reporting that goes deeper to deliver a story that provides a richer and broader understanding. This live broadcast from one of the Middle East's most iconic tourist and historical sites, cements CNN's commitment to the region, delivering a unique perspective on the region to our global audience," said Rena Golden, senior vice president of CNN International.
"It is entirely fitting that Petra, the treasure of Jordan that also belongs to the world, should be the location for this historic broadcast. The selection of this enthralling site, steeped in history and heritage, matches the exciting scope of the global communications vision shown by CNN in their coverage of the Middle East, and is to be welcomed for its timeliness as well as its central message of peace and stability," then-Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Alia Hattough-Bouran said.
"Eye on the Middle East" is part of the special programming commissioned to celebrate CNN's 25th anniversary. The live feature from Petra will include a special report on the logistics of setting up a live night-time broadcast.
© Jordan Times 2005
