By M.A. Egge
The President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro, honored the media fraternity, both the independent and state-owned press in the country, and hosted them for an unprecedented maiden open meeting.
This is the first time in the country’s history that such a meeting, which is other than a presser, has been called by seating a Head of State.
The honorable occasion that the President hosted for the media fraternity was attended by the Vice President, H.E. Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, several members of the cabinet, and some of the commanders of the various armed forces in the country.
The purpose of the meeting was for the President to hold an open meeting with the country’s press, and to strengthen the atmosphere of cooperation between the government and the press.
The members of the various press organizations in the country who spoke thanked the President for inviting the country’s press to the meeting.
They praised the President for the cooperation and close relationship that he and his government have with the press and journalists.
The Minister of Information, Culture and National Guidnce of the Hon. Ahmed Yasin Sheikh Ali Ayaanle, hailed the country’s media for protecting nationalism and social cohesion, calling on them to continue their efforts and support every step the government takes towards development.
The Head of State testified to the efforts of journalists in nation-building and the establishment of a government that is led by the people, and pledged to work with the press.
The President instructed members of his government to provide journalists with all the information they are entitled to.