TIRANA, March 17 /ATA/ President of the Republic Bajram Begaj stated on Tuesday that in a democratic society, the media should not be merely a mirror reflecting every light and shadow, but a compass guiding the public toward the truth.
During the Ramadan iftar with journalists and media professionals, the Head of State reflected on their mission, expressing his profound gratitude for the sacrifices made by members of the press and for their relentless efforts to safeguard the public interest and uphold the truth.
“At its highest expression, journalism embodies a form of ‘fasting of the word’; it is the discipline of refraining from uttering everything one hears, choosing instead to convey only what is true and of genuine value. It is the commitment to speak solely of what one knows, and to communicate it only after it has been double checked,” he affirmed.
The Head of State stressed that in today’s fast-paced information age, where negative news is often amplified and mobile phones act as newsrooms, the media’s responsibility to uphold truth and guidance is more critical than ever.
He underscored that strength comes from setting boundaries, and that words — as powerful instruments of influence — must be used with care, since they can build trust or cause division, reveal truth or conceal it.
Begaj highlighted that beyond their roles as officials or journalists, those gathered around the table share common hopes for a fairer, more honest society, free from negativity, and united in striving for good deeds and a better, more prosperous Albania.
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