Karam Gabr, the Head of the Supreme Council for Media Regulation in Egypt, recently visited Oman to learn more about the country’s media landscape and how it operates. During his visit to Oman News Agency, the News Centre, Digital Studios Complex, and Oman Newspaper building, Gabr was impressed by the advanced technical equipment and programs aimed at keeping up with the fast pace of media action. He commended the strong bilateral relations between Oman and Egypt, highlighting the rich cultural, intellectual, and technical components that the two countries share.
Gabr emphasized the important role of media in establishing closer relations between countries and peoples. He believes that the media can bridge gaps, create common ground among nations, and encourage better communication. Gabr also stressed the role of media in promoting national identity, particularly among youth, by instilling a sense of belonging, love for the homeland, and a desire to protect its achievements. He also warned against the negative impacts of social media, such as the spread of violence and extremism, and stressed the importance of ensuring that media content aligns with societal values, ethics, and laws.
The Egyptian official noted the challenges faced by print media, including declining readership rates and fewer advertisements and resources. However, Gabr believes that print media will continue to be an important part of society’s soft power. He emphasized the need for media content to be in line with societal values and to avoid perpetuating negative behaviors. Gabr highlighted the importance of using social media platforms positively and avoiding content that goes against religious values, customs, and traditions.
Overall, Gabr’s visit to Oman highlighted the importance of media in modern society and the need for media outlets to adapt to the fast-paced technological changes. He emphasized the role of media in promoting positive values and behaviors, while also addressing the challenges faced by traditional print media. The visit helped strengthen the ties between Oman and Egypt and underscored the importance of cooperation and knowledge exchange in the media industry.
