Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin on Thursday underscored the pivotal role of diplomatic correspondents in countering misinformation and fostering transparency in international relations, reports BSS.
“Accurate and balanced reporting by diplomatic correspondents can play a crucial role in preventing the spread of rumors and misinformation,” he said while speaking at the "First-ever DCAB Media Award" ceremony at the Foreign Service Academy.
Jashim emphasized that fact-based journalism is vital in avoiding potential disruptions in bilateral relations or unnecessary diplomatic tensions.
“Verifying facts, checking sources, and reporting accurately are responsibilities that cannot be compromised,” he noted.
The Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) organized the event while its President Nurul Islam Hasib, General Secretary Ashiqur Rahman Apu, and Foreign Ministry’s spokesperson Mohammad Rafiqul Alam also spoke.
The Foreign Secretary lauded the efforts of DCAB members in simplifying complex diplomatic issues while distinguishing between verified information and false claims.
“Your (DCAB members) insightful reporting expands the scope of the Ministry’s work and fosters accountability,” he said.
Jashim stressed the importance of continued collaboration to further strengthen Bangladesh’s global standing and ensure justice, accountability, and democratic values.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to building an inclusive future, he said that the partnership between the media and the diplomatic community must grow stronger as Bangladesh’s international importance continues to rise.
The Foreign Secretary reaffirmed his commitment to supporting diplomatic correspondents in their mission to inform the public accurately and enhance Bangladesh’s global image.
The Foreign Secretary congratulated the awardees for their exceptional contributions to diplomatic reporting.
The award recipients are Mizanur Rahman, Special Correspondent of The Daily Manabzamin, in the print category; Md Mashrequl Islam (Mashreq Rahat), Senior Reporter of Maasranga TV, in the television category; and Md Nazrul Islam, Diplomatic Correspondent of Dhaka Post, in the online category.
The jury for the award comprised Reaz Ahmed, Executive Editor of Dhaka Tribune; Dr. Md Saiful Alam Chowdhury, Associate Professor at the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism, Dhaka University; and journalist Miraj Ahmed Chowdhury, Managing Director of Digitally Right.
The panel evaluated the submissions based on several criteria, including the context, novelty, significance of the topic, use of information, sources, language and presentation style, reasoning and structure, and original research conducted by the reporters.
Bd-Pratidin English/ Afsar Munna
