Manama, His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa conveyed his appreciation to the national press for its dedication to serving the nation with proficiency and integrity. His Majesty commended the press's steadfast commitment to journalistic ethics, honesty, and objectivity, emphasising its role in supporting the progress of the nation's development endeavours while preserving its achievements. In a message marking World Press Freedom Day, observed globally on May 3 under the theme "A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis," HM the King expressed pride in Bahraini journalists for their adherence to professional standards, impartiality, and credibility. His Majesty the King underscored the pivotal role of the press in supporting the efforts of countries and governments in promoting global security and stability, which are essential for human advancement and prosperity. His Majesty highlighted the pressing challenge posed by climate change, noting its implications for intern ational peace and stability, as well as the future of humanity. He urged concerted efforts to ensure global environmental security, emphasising the role of journalism in raising awareness through disseminating accurate information and motivating communities to protect the environment. HM the King added that the Kingdom of Bahrain, in its commitment to sustainable development, has prioritised environmental issues through various initiatives, strategies, and national plans. Bahrain, in its efforts to consolidate sustainable development, has given environmental issues significant importance, as demonstrated by national initiatives, strategies and plans, His Majesty the King said. "Bahrain has committed to the Paris Agreement and the Glasgow Summit's decision on reducing emissions," His Majesty said. " It launched the National Action Plan "Blueprint Bahrain" aimed at achieving carbon neutrality by 2060, the National Energy Strategy and the Climate Technology Fund, among other initiatives, to protect the enviro nment, human health, and support international efforts for enhanced quality of life." His Majesty the King commended the efforts of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in leading the governments efforts to protect the environment and ensure the sustainability of its resources. His Majesty urged the national press and media to continue prioritising environmental issues, urging them to disseminate messages that raise awareness among individuals and society. Expressing pride in Bahraini journalists and media professionals, HM the King underscored the importance of enhancing their skills in alignment with digital media and artificial intelligence (AI) advancements. His Majesty underscored the national press's commitment to constitutional and legal frameworks supporting press freedom, which has enabled to perform its role as a key player in development. His Majesty the King said that the selection of Manama as the Arab Media Capital 2024 reflects the est eemed position attained by Bahrain's press and media, prompting further Arab cooperation, especially with Bahrain hosting the 33rd Arab Summit this month. HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa lauded the Ministry of Information for its efforts in enhancing the capabilities of journalists and media professionals. His Majesty commended the ministry's focus on training young talents to effectively represent the nation's development and preserve its national identity. His Majesty also lauded the contributions of national press institutions and the Bahrain Journalists Association (BJA) in advancing Bahrain's development efforts, wishing Bahraini press and media Bahrain continued success. Source: Bahrain News Agency