“Media in Belarus’2008” exhibition took place without independent media participating

Officials received diplomas for the best publications on the issue of state building. The prizes were awarded during the opening ceremony of the 12th «Media in Belarus» International Exhibition on Monday in «Belexpo» Exhibition Center. According to a BAJ Press Service correspondent’s observation, there are no independent civil and political newspapers represented at the exhibition.

Uladzimir Rusakevich, the Minister of Information, during his opening word said the exhibition gathered «unprecedented number of participants». «This is an illustration of interest for the development of Belarusian press, interest for the work of Belarusian journalists», the Minister pointed out. He also expressed «the words of special gratitude to senior officials of the Republic of Belarus, to members of the government, to representatives of diplomatic corps, accredited in Belarus».

Usevalad Jancheuski, the head of the Principle Ideology Department of President Administration, read out an appeal of Aliaksandr Lukashenka, President of Belarus, to participants of the exhibition. «Media field cannot be an arena of competition in circulating political speculations. In an unquiet world of today it is extremely important to provide people with balanced and trustworthy information, bearing in mind the level of responsibility for every word printed and broadcasted», the appeal goes.

The officials of district, regional and national levels were awarded diplomas for the best publications dedicated to the issue of state building. The diplomas were presented to Vasil Zharko, the Minister of Health Care, Leanid Malcau, the Minister of Defense, Valery Parashkou, the Chairman of State Committee for Standardization, and some other senior officials.

The presentation of state TV and radio channels also took place today. «Media in Belarus’2008» Exhibition will continue for three days.