RIYADH, 26 May 2003 — Interior Minister Prince Naif yesterday urged the local media to play a leading role in bringing about social stability and to strengthen cohesion in Saudi society, especially in times of crises.
Addressing editors-in-chief of Saudi newspapers and magazines, Prince Naif also urged the media to deal with “the present sensitive situation and the dangerous events with the utmost responsibility.”
Prince Naif urged the media to report objectively and adopt a stand that conformed to Islamic principles and values and the Kingdom’s social situation.
The interior minister underlined the role of Saudi citizens in bolstering the country’s security and urged them to cooperate with police by informing them about criminals.
“Security is a joint responsibility and the citizens should bear part of this, since they are the first beneficiary of security and stability,” he said.
Prince Naif noted the role of newspapers and other media outlets in fostering values and mobilizing public opinion against crime.
“The media can also play an important role in strengthening social unity, producing good citizens and confronting negative thoughts and ideas,” he said.
