Media has a vital role to play in UAE, says Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid attended a meeting of editors-in-chief of newspapers, media industry leaders, and representatives of Arab and international news agencies, press and TV channels operating in the UAE.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid receives a book from Mohammed Al Hammadi, Editor-in-Chief of Aletihad newspaper. Wam

ABU DHABI // The greater the challenges the region faces, the greater the media’s responsibility in helping to overcome them, said Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai.

Sheikh Mohammed attended a meeting of editors-in-chief of newspapers, media industry leaders, and representatives of Arab and international news agencies, press and TV channels operating in the UAE, state news agency Wam reported.

The media, said Sheikh Mohammed, was a force for development and a shield that protected the Islamic nation from threats posed by those harbouring ill towards it.

The Arab and Islamic world was in need of a balanced ­media that maintained the highest standards of integrity, objectivity and impartiality, said Sheikh Mohammed, adding that the media should not serve one’s personal interests but that of the entire community. It should be a driving force for national progress, he said.

“A balanced media is a source of hope that will help the region face its growing challenges,” Sheikh Mohammed said, adding that by being accessible to all segments of society, the media could create order out of chaos and open the doors of opportunity.

He highlighted the vital role of the media in fighting terrorism and extremism and said the media could mould youth positively, inculcating Islamic teachings and Arab values, and equipping them with the tools for overcoming obstacles.

Sheikh Mohammed received two books at the meeting, one from Editor-in-Chief of Aletihad newspaper Mohammed Al Hammadi, and another from UAE writer Awadh bin Hassoom Al Darmaky.

The meeting was also attended by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, and other dignitaries.

The media professionals praised the Reading Nation campaign launched by Sheikh Mohammed at the start of Ramadan to distribute five million books to children in refugee camps and schools.