PRESIDENT OF MONGOLIA SENDS MESSAGE TO JOURNALISTS ON WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY
President of Mongolia Khaltmaagiin Battulga has sent a message to the participants of the National forum on Independent Journalism, dedicated to the World Press Freedom Day observed on May 3rd.
The message was read out by the Head of Press and Media Department of the Office of the President, Ms. J.Tsesen.
The President said in the message addressed to the “Participants of the ‘Independent Journalism’ Forum”:
“I extend my heartfelt greetings to esteemed journalists and workers of press and media on the World Press Freedom Day.
“The Constitution of Mongolia provides that ‘State power shall be vested in the people of Mongolia. The people shall exercise state power through their direct participation in State affairs as well as through the representative bodies of State power elected by them.’ However, it is nearly impossible for citizens to exercise this right bestowed to them without authentic information. Therefore, implementation of the right to information is a special duty of the Government and press.
“I view that this year’s agenda of the National Forum addressing control on authorities represents its connection to the above provision of the Constitution. Both control and authority have inseparable connection to the Government and press, especially, are a main issue of concern for journalism. Sector of journalism have to pursue principles based on ethics, responsibility, education and humanity at all times.
“I, as the President, am entrusting You, honorable journalists, with making your own great contributions with full dedication and awareness of your duties before the country’s growth, the nation’s interest in justice, pluralism and transparency.
“I wish the participants of the ‘Independent Journalism’ Forum more and more success in your future careers to be built on your values and principles.
“May Mongolian journalism live for hundreds of years, protected by your sharp-edged pens and independent voices for truth.”
The message of President of Mongolia Kh.Battulga was presented to president of the Confederation of Mongolian Journalists Kh.Mandakhbayar.