Mr. Wegard Harsvik,
Honored colleagues of the world’s press corps,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I can’t help but have mixed feelings, one of sadness and one of happiness. Sad, because two days have passed and we have come to the end of our third Global Inter-Media Dialogue, meaning that we would have to say goodbye to this beautiful exotic island, some as early as tomorrow, while the more fortunate ones will have an additional day to see yet more beauty that Indonesia has to offer: Yogyakarta.
But I am also happy. Happy and satisfied of the discussions of the past two days. You’ve talked and discussed on a wide variety of vital issues faced by journalists today, from among others, covering conflicts, reporting minorities in zones of tension, and the war on terror. Reportage in these areas puts journalists in extreme conditions.
I would like to take this opportunity to once again thank the Norwegian Government for co-sponsoring the Global Inter-Media Dialogue with us. This cooperation between the two governments show our commitment in trying to promote a world media that is more understanding and more tolerant in a multi-cultural world that is more and more closely knit together. My thanks also goes to the Government of New Zealand for supporting this event.
I would also like to mention that the beautiful Batik you received as souvenirs when you registered are compliments of the Indonesian Ministry of Cultural and Tourism Affairs, as part of the Visit Indonesia Year 2008 promotion. It will be better if you bring your families and friends, but of course, there is no pressure to.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The participation of each and every single one of you, with the breath of knowledge and experiences you bring, is a valuable contribution. My only hope, and I think the same goes to all of you is that our effort will serve as a step forward to create better understanding and tolerance, which in turn will lead to a more peaceful and harmonious world.
As we’ve mention over and again, the flow of information – once confined to a certain geographic location or cultural border - now knows no border. A report on an issue aimed at the local or national audience will be read or viewed by others who may be offended at the content of the report. In these cases, where news will reach unintended multi-cultural societies, sensitivity and tolerance is not only needed, but essential in preventing unwanted consequences.
We particularly welcome your commitment to ensure continued respect for the core values and ethics of journalism built upon respect for the truth, independence, and professional social responsibility.
We are extremely pleased to know that a network of journalists will carry over the responsibility of the result of the Dialogues. We warmly welcome the proposed concrete follow-ups that are being considered by the participants, including covering diversity, improving journalism ethics, media developments, training, and a journalism prize. This is proof that our Dialogues have borne fruitful result. And as the co-host, the Government of Indonesia is deeply honored to play a role as a “midwife” in initiating and facilitating the three Global Inter-Media Dialogues. The Indonesian Government stands ready to continue supporting and facilitating the network.
Ladies and Gentleman,
Finally, I hope you have had a pleasant and memorable stay in Bali, and share your experiences with friends and family back home. And finally, I would like to wish you all a safe trip home, and for those participating in tomorrow’s visit, it really pleases me that you will be able to see more of Indonesia.
Terima Kasih dan Sampai Jumpa.