Government committed to support private press: Minister

Addis Ababa, April 19(ENA)-- The government of Ethiopia would press ahead with its support and encouragement to enhancing the private press, Minister of Information said.

Speaking at the opening here on Saturday of an exhibition entitled ''The Journey of the Independent Press'', Bereket Simon said the government would work towards strengthening the private press as it is a key tool in the democratization process.

The new draft press law would contribute significantly to the credibility of the private press, he said, adding it would also promote the professional efficiency of journalists and publishers.

The government's support for organizing such exhibitions was once again a clear indication of its commitment for freedom of expression and the creation of a strong press that would reinforce democratization and development endeavors, he said.

The exhibition organized by Wag Communications Company has displayed various publications, which have been issued since 1983 E.C.

Director of the company, Teferi Wossen said on his part that the exhibition was aimed at assessing the content coverage and contributions of the private press over the last ten years.

It would also help as a viable forum for evaluating the progress of the private press and identifying weaknesses that need to be rectified, he said.

Journalists, the public and the government have contributed to the growth of the press, he said, adding the private press should maximize its efforts with a view to winning public trust.

The government on its part should admit the fact that the strengthening of the private press would have great significance in expediting the development and democratization efforts, Teferi said.

Some 182 magazines, 543 newspapers had been licensed over the past decade, Teferi said citing relevant data obtained from the Ministry of Information.

Currently 27 magazines and up to 100 newspapers were being published, the director said.

Diplomats, publishers and invited guests attended the opening ceremony of the exhibition.

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