Media minister, JBA chief hail achievements under King’s leadership

AMMAN — The media sector has witnessed a “qualitative leap” during His Majesty King Abdullah’s reign, Minister of State for Media Affairs Ali Ayed said on Saturday.

Speaking to Jordan TV’s Yawm Jadid (A new day) programme on the occasion of His Majesty’s birthday, Ayed referred to the “big diversity” in local media outlets today, which contributes to enhancing competitiveness in terms of performance that serves delivering the Kingdom’s messages locally and internationally.

Ayed, who is also the government spokesperson, noted to King Abdullah’s keenness on the freedom of the press and His Majesty’s belief that “the bounds of the press are the skies”, pointing to the media’s role in shedding light on shortcomings in a way that serves the public interest, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

Speaking to Nashama FM radio station, Ayed said that the King’s birthday is a national occasion that is precious to all Jordanians, especially that this year it coincides with the Kingdom’s celebrations of its second centennial.

The minister extended greetings to King Abdullah on his birthday and wished him good health.

Also on Saturday, the Jordanian Businessmen Association (JBA) expressed pride in the achievements the Kingdom has realised since His Majesty assumed his constitutional powers, according to Petra.

JBA President Hamdi Tabbaa said that King Abdullah paid much attention to the economic sector through development projects that contributed to progress in the economic and sustainable social development.

The JBA president also reviewed main accomplishments at the economic level, such as heading towards a digital economy, business entrepreneurship, establishing the economic advisory council, and joining the Free Trade Organisation, as well as computerising education and establishing the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority.

Tabbaa added that Jordan, under the leadership of His Majesty, has continued its role in defending Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem and maintaining its Arab identity through supporting the resilience of its residents.