TIRANA, Jan 11 /ATA/ President of the Republic, Bajram Begaj, extended the start of the year reception with journalists and media representatives on Wednesday afternoon.
In his remarks, Begaj said that, “other than the fourth power, the media is a mission. He expressed his gratitude to the journalists and all those who dedicate themselves to this mission.
“I know that your profession has its hardships, which are not only professional challenges, but also economic security and the conditions of practicing your profession. You will find in the institution of President of the Republic and me a careful listener and readiness for support so that media professionals enjoy the treatment, appreciation and security they deserve,” Begaj told the media representatives.
“You have the power of exposing the realities that we can know better and differently, especially through you. Regarding these realities, whatever they may be, and especially regarding my activity and the President’s Institution: I assure you that there will be no requests of any kind regarding the time and way of their presentation. Our task is to provide you with all the information and support required by the law, democracy, and civic engagement,” said Begaj.
On the other hand, Begaj brought up a concern which he said, “I share it with many Albanians of different generations. Our media space falls short of the Albanian society’s expectations. Oftentimes, the media turns into a political battlefield, where anything is possible, from fake news to vocabulary without any kind of quality filter. Today’s Albania has neither the reality nor the fiercest political confrontation in Europe. Therefore, there is no reason for the Albanian media to experience and disseminate them as such. Albanian society has been held in high esteem by politics for its achievements for years now. Therefore, this society cannot be left or presented as depending on a political and moral drama prescribed in the editorial office, or account without author and therefore without responsibility.”
“Albania is an extraordinary country for its achievements from 1992 until today. Our country is special for the strength with which it has overcome a very difficult geo-political history. It is rare for its nature and the strength of the will of the Albanians”, underlined Begaj.
The Head of State added that, “Albania is a Euro-Atlantic country, deeply dedicated and on the certain path to integration in the European Union that is marked by setbacks and achievements like other countries in Europe. In this sense, the media must have the power of truth, far-sightedness and inspiration like many of its counterparts with a democratic tradition. It’s time. It’s the opportunity. There is also support”.
“Criticism and innovations brought by the media and social media can be guides for society towards its achievements. But, it is regrettable when this opportunity is used to sling the mud of the ambitions of anyone who has unsettled accounts, with personal stories, or with the history or justice of this country,” said Begaj.
“I say this in the broadest sense of the word, because I see the profession of journalist from the lenses of idealism and its height. I see this potential in our journalists and media professionals. Therefore, my message today, for you, at the beginning of the year is: Be inspiring, a quality reference for young people who engage with the news and the media, and rise up to the role that belongs to you!”, said Begaj.
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