Al-Sudani commends the crucial role of the Iraqi press in countering terrorism and extremism

Baghdad-INA
 
Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani participated on Saturday in the official celebration organized by the Iraqi Journalists Syndicate in Baghdad. The event marked the National Day of the Iraqi Press and the 154th anniversary of the newspaper Zawraa's publication in 1869.
The Prime Minister, in his speech during the celebration of the anniversary of the founding of the Iraqi press, which was attended by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), conveyed his congratulations and best wishes to Iraq's press community, expressing his hope for continued progress and innovation.
 
He also commended the crucial role of the Iraqi press in countering terrorism and extremism, as well as its valuable contribution in identifying shortcomings and improving governmental performance. The Prime Minister also acknowledged the sacrifices made in upholding freedom of speech.
 
During the celebration, the Prime Minister highlighted the following points in his speech:
 
The Iraqi press serves as a vital repository of our nation's history, capturing a wealth of events and accomplishments.
 
We pay tribute to the courageous journalists who sacrificed their lives during the dark days of dictatorship and the divisive sectarian period. They valiantly accompanied our security forces in the fight against ISIS, displaying unwavering commitment.
 
We also acknowledge the patriotic journalists who steadfastly confronted foreign agendas and conspiracies aimed at undermining our unity. Their resolute stance protected the interests of our beloved nation.
 
We acknowledge the crucial role of the press in identifying shortcomings that impact the well-being of our citizens. We rely on their vigilance to uncover and combat corruption.
 
In the spirit of transparency and upholding the constitutional rights of our citizens, the government actively fosters communication with the press. We believe in the people's right to access clear and transparent information about the government's work.
 
In line with this commitment, we have instructed the Commission of Integrity to review a bill on the right to access information. We anticipate their feedback within the next few weeks, enabling us to present it to the Council of Representatives for review.
 
We have implemented a comprehensive set of measures to bolster the journalism profession. This includes facilitating logistical services, providing banking facilities, and addressing relevant aspects of the recently approved Labor and Social Security Law.
 
Ensuring fairness for journalists is a top priority for the government, particularly in matters pertaining to housing benefits.
 
It is important to emphasize that the press should not serve as a platform for those who thrive on chaos, baseless accusations, or the distortion of facts. It should not be exploited as a tool for blackmail.

Certain media outlets, both within and outside Iraq, have been preoccupied with spreading negativity, often driven by political or self-serving agenda. This has resulted in depriving Iraq of potential opportunities for investment and development.
 
The national press and its leaders bear the responsibility of organizing journalistic profession, as there are those who fail to differentiate between freedom and chaos.
 
Today, we extend an invitation to the press to portray Iraq's bright and positive aspects, highlighting the nation's promising future.