Dhaka:President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir emphasized the importance of unity among journalists and media workers in protecting their professional interests and rights during a meeting with the Thakurgaon Journalists Forum, Dhaka.
According to United News of Bangladesh, during the meeting at Bangabhaban, he highlighted the necessity of ensuring job security, fair wages, and benefits for media workers to foster an environment conducive to independent and responsible journalism. The president described the failure to secure journalists' welfare and rights as unfortunate for society and stressed the need for collaboration among media professionals to achieve these goals.
Additionally, President Alamgir acknowledged the vital role journalists play in serving the state and society, urging them to remain fearless and responsible in exposing corruption and injustice. He underscored the importance of mainstream media in combating misinformation and unethical journalism prevalent on social media platforms.
The president also expressed his deep connection to Thakurgaon, his home district, and his commitment to keeping it free from communalism and drugs, seeking the support of journalists in these efforts. He congratulated the forum's members for their contributions to national media and the development of Thakurgaon, urging them to highlight the district's achievements at the national level.
During the meeting, the forum's leaders addressed various professional challenges faced by journalists and sought government support for establishing their rights and obtaining professional training. They also requested assistance for a permanent office and medical treatment for critically ill members. President Alamgir assured them of his cooperation and wished for the forum's continued success and well-being.
Senior officials, including the president's military secretary, secretary, and press secretary, attended the meeting.