| Stressed, though not the way you'd read that the first time. |
The forum, organized by King Abdul Aziz National Dialogue Center and attended by a large number of media persons and intellectuals, stressed the need for a national vision for Saudi media.
The 7-point proposal also called for a charter of honor for the media prepared by experts including forum participants and government representatives.
"The team will identify the principles to be included in the charter that would strengthen national unity, ensure intellectual security of society and contribute to preserving social peace, national building and protecting the country's achievements," the SPA said quoting the forum's final communiqué.
The participants said the relationship between the media and government departments should be based on confidence and credibility.
"Government organizations should provide the media with correct and complete information," they added.
They also called for revising the current Publication Law keeping in view of the speedy developments in the media sector. The media should fight tribal, regional and ideological bigotry and discrimination.
The participants were of the view that the media should possess the qualities of credibility, fair criticism, respect for readers and viewers, professionalism and knowing the limits of freedom.
| In other words, the press will need to report what they're told to report by the government: that will be 'credible' and 'fair', and thus demonstrate 'respect'. The press then will be paid like the 'professionals' they are! having stayed within the 'limits'. |