BEIRUT: President Michel Sleiman said Sunday that Lebanese media should be mindful of the unique domestic situation, emphasizing the importance of objective, unbiased reporting.
“The Lebanese media should take into consideration the traditions of the Lebanese society and its factions and focus on objectivity and positive angles, while criticism should be constructive and aimed at rectifying flaws,” Sleiman said in a statement to mark International Media Day.
Sleiman, who praised the Lebanese media’s efforts in reporting facts, said that news coverage should highlight cultural, social and artistic developments rather than just politics.
“Media has remained a profession of reporting troubles and conveying the truth and facts, as technological advancement has promoted its role, influence and geographic coverage, currently reaching every citizen,” Sleiman said.
Sleiman added that Lebanon was committed to media freedom, in line with the Constitution.
Maronite Patriarch Beshara Rai, prior to meeting with Sleiman at the president’s summer residence in Jbeil, said that the media plays an important role in bridging gaps between people and cultures.
“We see these [news] outlets playing a role in bringing people, civilizations and communities together,” Rai said. “The world has become a small village through the constructive coverage of cultures and civilizations.”
Addressing followers, Rai added in his Sunday sermon that similar to the changes in society that followed the industrial revolution, the advances in telecommunications are creating changes at the educational and social levels. Rai said that new telecommunication technology provides a forum for dialogue and solidarity among people based on positive ties.
However, Rai warned that people should not withdraw from their surrounding environment and rely solely on IT.