SAARC Editors call for free movement of journos in region

New Delhi, Feb 10 (UNI) SAARC media Editors today called for issuing of multiple-entry long-term visas to journalists to enable them free movement in the region.

They also stressed on dismantling all border barriers to enable free and easy exchange of media products.

A resolution adopted at the first-ever Conference of SAARC Editors, which concluded here today, called upon the governments in SAARC countries to make freedom of the press an ''inalienable, fundamental right'' of journalists.

Expressing regret at the threats to and intimidation of journalists by ''agencies of the State, extra-constitutional authorities, self-appointed cultural custodians, religious and political press-gangs, and criminal elements acting in collusion with law enforcement agencies,'' the Conference urged the governments of the SAARC region to bring in necessary legislations or amendments in their respective constitutions.

Earlier, in his address at the conclusion of the Conference, External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee highlighted the ''dynamic growth'' of the SAARC media and said such growth had thrown up quality issues in its wake.

New technologies had blurred traditional distinctions between media formats and the convergence of formats had thrown up new challenges, he said.

He stressed the need for the media to be fully aware of its power and responsibility for creating proper understanding between neighbouring countries.

The two-day conference, that was inaugurated by Foreign Secretary Shivshankar Menon yesterday, deliberated on developing media values and promoting understanding among the people of the region through the medium.

This was the first-ever such meeting of SAARC media Editors and was jointly organised by the External Affairs Ministry and a private enterprise--Media Development Foundation.

The next meeting will be held in Karachi.

The Conference also stressed on the role of media in confronting modern challenges, including threat of the internet, issues related to security, trade and economy, democracy and media and foreign policy.

UNI