The Libyan News Agency, affiliated with the House of Representatives, held a celebration on the occasion of the sixtieth anniversary of its founding.
Member of the House of Representatives, Ibrahim Al-Zagheed, delivered a speech to the House of Representatives at the opening of the celebration, during which he welcomed the attendees, praising the efforts of the Director General of the Libyan News Agency and all its employees.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abdullah Al-Masry Al-Fadil, also delivered a speech on the occasion of the sixtieth anniversary of the founding of the Libyan News Agency, during which he stressed, “The House of Representatives has an important role in supporting the Libyan News Agency through its issuance of Law No. (8) of 2021 AD, which restored the Libyan News Agency’s subordination to power.” Legislation, which was extremely important for the independence of the agency’s work and the continuation of its giving.”
He pointed out that “despite the circumstances that the Libyan News Agency has gone through since its inception, it has maintained its entity and leadership in the media in our country, being the official source of news in all state institutions,” adding that the agency played a prominent role in transmitting news and information professionally and contributed to enhancing awareness among society. Al-Libi, praising the achievements of the Libyan News Agency over the past sixty years, which are a source of pride and a source of appreciation and pride for all, and extending his thanks to everyone who contributed to building this ancient institution, including employees, journalists, and editors, whether from the generation of the founding fathers or the vibrant young people.
He also “appreciated the efforts of the employees of the Libyan News Agency, led by the Chairman and members of the Board of Directors and the Acting Director General, for preserving the unity of the institution and not dividing it.”
This was followed by the speeches of the attendees, during which they praised “the leading media role of the Libyan News Agency in the media scene, and the efforts made by the agency’s employees over the past years.”
The celebration included “honoring the journalists, photographers, and broadcasters who won the WAL Award for Journalism Creativity in the press report category, the press story category, and the news story category, as well as the art of audio radio programs, video clips, and the still photo category. The celebration also witnessed the holding of a symposium entitled “The Libyan News Agency for Sixty Years.” .
At the end of the celebration, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aguila Saleh, Khalifa Al-Qasim Haftar, and the Head of the House of Representatives, Abdullah Al-Masry Al-Fadil, were honored, as well as a number of state officials, in addition to honoring a number of employees of the Libyan News Agency.
The celebration was attended by members of the House of Representatives, Ibrahim Al-Zagheed, Jalal Al-Shuwaihdi, Sultanate Al-Mismari, Asma Al-Khoja, and the head of the House of Representatives, Abdullah Al-Masry Al-Fadil. The celebration was also attended by Khalifa Haftar, the National Security Advisor, Ibrahim Bushnaf, the Chief of Staff of the Air Defense, “Ahmed Al-Mismari,” and the Director of the Moral Guidance Department. In the Armed Forces, Khaled Al-Mahjoub, the Social Coordinator of the General Command of the Armed Forces, Belaid Al-Sheikhi, the Minister of State for Illegal Immigration Affairs, Fathi Al-Tabawi, the Minister of Investment, Ali Al-Saidi, the Minister of Defense, Ahmed Houma, the Minister of Higher Education, Mahdi Shuaib, the Minister of African Affairs, Issa Abdel Majeed, and the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Mr. Ali. “Qalma,” the head of the Administrative Control Authority, Khaled Najm, the head of the Anti-Corruption Authority, Ajdid Maatouq Ajdid, the head of the Libyan Media Corporation, Muhammad Baayou, the mayor of Benghazi, Al-Saqr Boujwari, the Greek Consul, Agapios Kalognomis, the Director General of the Pan-African Agency, Abu Bakr Fall, and a group of media professionals, journalists, and those interested in media affairs.
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Interview Between Time.news Editor and Media Expert on the Libyan News Agency’s 60th Anniversary Celebration
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome to our discussion today! We have a special guest, Dr. Marwa Al-Khalil, a media expert and analyst, who has been observing the evolution of media in Libya for over a decade. Dr. Al-Khalil, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Marwa Al-Khalil (MAK): Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here, especially to discuss such a significant occasion for the Libyan News Agency.
TNE: The Libyan News Agency recently celebrated its 60th anniversary. What does this milestone represent for media in Libya?
MAK: This anniversary is not only a celebration of the agency’s history but also a testament to its resilience. Despite the tumultuous political landscape and challenges, the agency has managed to retain its status as the official source of news in Libya. It symbolizes continuity and trust in an era when both are crucial.
TNE: Ibrahim Al-Zagheed, a member of the House of Representatives, praised the agency’s efforts during the celebration. How important are such endorsements from government representatives for the agency?
MAK: It’s incredibly important! Endorsements like those from Al-Zagheed and Speaker Abdullah Al-Masry Al-Fadil reinforce the agency’s legitimacy and independence. The support provided through legislation, such as Law No. (8) of 2021, helps protect the agency from external pressures, allowing it to operate freely and maintain journalistic integrity.
TNE: The celebration featured a symposium titled “The Libyan News Agency for Sixty Years.” What impact do you think discussions like these have on the future of journalism in Libya?
MAK: Symposiums foster critical dialogue and reflection within the industry. By examining the agency’s past and current role, participants can develop strategies for future challenges. They also help in creating a sense of community among journalists, encouraging collaboration and innovation in the media sector.
TNE: The event also recognized journalists and creators who won awards for their work. What does this recognition mean for aspiring journalists in Libya?
MAK: Recognition is essential! It motivates young journalists and acknowledges their hard work and creativity. The WAL Award for Journalism Creativity highlights excellence in the field and encourages upcoming talents to aspire for high standards. It’s about nurturing a culture of quality journalism that benefits the whole society.
TNE: Abdullah Al-Masry Al-Fadil mentioned the importance of the agency in enhancing societal awareness. Can you elaborate on that?
MAK: Certainly. The Libyan News Agency has played a vital role in informing the public, especially during critical times. By providing reliable news, the agency helps citizens make informed decisions, fostering an informed populace. This is paramount in a country like Libya, where information can influence public opinion and even policy.
TNE: As we look ahead, what challenges do you foresee for the Libyan News Agency and the media landscape in Libya?
MAK: One major challenge is navigating the evolving digital landscape and combating misinformation. The agency will need to leverage technology while adhering to journalistic ethics. Additionally, sustaining independence amidst political pressures will remain a delicate balance. However, with continued support from the government and society, there’s potential for growth and innovation.
TNE: Thank you for sharing these insights, Dr. Al-Khalil. In closing, what message would you like to send to the future journalists and media professionals in Libya?
MAK: I would encourage them to stay committed to the truth, embrace creativity, and uphold ethical standards in their work. The future of journalism in Libya is bright, and it’s up to the new generation to shape it with passion and integrity.
TNE: Thank you once again for your time and expertise. It’s always enlightening to hear your perspective on the evolution of media in Libya.
MAK: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure discussing such a pivotal moment in our media landscape.