Qatar Press Center discusses media’s role in safeguarding national security

Doha, Qatar - The Qatar Press Center (QPC) recently held a discussion on the vital role of media in safeguarding national security, emphasizing the need for accurate reporting and responsible communication amidst the rapid digital transformation and increasing information challenges. This dialogue was organized by the QPC in collaboration with the Joaan bin Jassim Academy for Defence Studies and brought together participants from the seventh National Defence Course, media professionals, and representatives from relevant institutions.

Notable attendees included Jaber Salem Al Harmi, the Vice-Chairman of QPC's Board of Directors, Colonel Hadi Rashid Al Ayadi Al Hajri from the Joaan bin Jassim Academy, and Sadiq Mohammed Al Amari, QPC's Director-General. The event took place at the Abdullah bin Hussein Al Nuaimi Hall at the QPC office, with media professionals Noor Ibrahim Shahdad, Media Adviser at the National Cyber Security Agency, and several other journalists also in attendance.

Jaber Al-Harmi expressed gratitude for the diverse talent being developed and the preparation of qualified individuals for leadership and decision-making roles within Qatar's defense systems. He commended the country's response to recent attacks and highlighted the responsibility demonstrated by Qataris in various sectors. Al-Harmi stressed that media plays a crucial role in projecting Qatar's image and countering misinformation, urging continuous cooperation between media organizations and other state institutions.

He noted that strong institutional relationships are essential for enhancing the country's resilience against challenges, with various lines of defense working together in parallel.

Al Arab newspaper Editor-in-Chief Faleh Hussein Al Hajri commented on the growing media dimension of warfare, praising Qatar's media strength in countering detrimental campaigns. He emphasized that media outlets that adapt to changes while maintaining quality and credibility are best positioned to endure. Al Hajri highlighted the parallel development of military security operations and media security efforts, noting that media attacks are increasingly comparable to military attacks in their strength and impact.

Noor Ibrahim Shahdad, Media Adviser at the National Cyber Security Agency, stressed the importance of media awareness and responsible communication in protecting national interests and enhancing public discernment of reliable information. Moderating the discussion was Mohammed Rashid Al Marri, with participants also including Editor-in-Chief of Gulf Times Faisal Al Mudahka, Managing Editor of Al Raya newspaper Majed Al Jabara, and Editor-in-Chief of Al Watan newspaper Mohammed Haji.