The Head of the Supreme Council for Media Regulation of Egypt, Karam Gabr, recently visited Oman where he toured various media institutions and facilities. During his visit, he learned about Omani media and the advanced technical equipment used to keep up with the demands of the media industry. Gabr praised the strong bilateral relations between Egypt and Oman, citing shared cultural and technical aspects that make collaboration between the two countries beneficial.
Gabr emphasized the role of media in fostering closer relationships between countries and peoples. He highlighted the importance of the media in raising awareness about national identity and instilling a sense of belonging and patriotism, particularly among youth. Gabr also discussed the media’s responsibility in adapting to the technological revolution and ensuring that content aligns with societal values, ethics, and religious beliefs. He stressed the need to maximize the positive aspects of social media platforms while addressing and avoiding negative phenomena like violence and extremism.
The Egyptian official acknowledged the challenges facing print media, including declining reading rates and shrinking resources. He noted that these challenges are not unique to any specific country but are global in nature. Despite these challenges, Gabr expressed confidence in the continued relevance of print media as part of societies’ soft power. He discussed the importance of adapting to changing trends in media consumption while maintaining the integrity and values that are important to different societies.
Gabr’s visit to Oman News Agency (ONA) and other media institutions highlighted the potential for cooperation and exchange of expertise between Egypt and Oman in various fields. He emphasized the need for media to play a significant role in building bridges between nations and promoting better communication. Gabr’s insights into the evolving media landscape and the challenges facing the industry provide important perspectives on the role of media in society and the need for responsible content creation. His visit serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding ethical standards and values in media production and dissemination.
