Kuwaiti minister hails role of journalists at local newspaper event

The Minister of Information and State Minister for Youth Sheikh Salman Sabah Salem Al-Humoud Al-Sabah hailed the role of local reporters, describing them as "anonymous soldiers" who have contributed greatly to the modernization and development of the country. "Journalism and public freedoms have always been a cause for support from the political leadership of Kuwait," he said at the 38th anniversary of the launch of local newspaper, Al-Anbaa on Wednesday. "Kuwait's strength as a nation stems from its faith in responsible freedom, and abiding by the law is the source of stability, growth and progress." He added that as modern forms of media have entered the fray - ie web-based journalism and social networking - the job of journalism has become a tough one. Al-Anbaa, since its inception in 1976 at the hands of the late Khaled Al-Marzouq, has achieved exceptional development and has been able to keep its readers gripped, said the minister, who paid homage to the newspaper's role during defining moments in the country's history. "The newspaper has defended freedom of speech and democracy, and this has made it a model of a sophisticated and advanced daily. That reflects the state of journalism in Kuwait and the sophistication of its people," he said. Chief Editor of Al-Anbaa Yousef Al-Marzouq, for his part, said that, the paper "has been following a roadmap aimed at maintaining its role of being a podium of discussion and a voice of the Kuwaiti people in the face of enemies of the state." He also expressed delight at the attendance, as guests of honour, of several local actors and supporters of initiatives aimed at the youth.