Shavkat Mirziyoyev praises journalists' role in promoting accountability and transparency 

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev sent a congratulatory message to Press and Mass Media workers. 

Dear friends! 

First of all, I sincerely congratulate you, the dedicated enthusiasts of our national journalism, and our esteemed veterans who have made significant contributions to the development of the field, on June 27 – Press and Mass Media Workers' Day. I extend my highest respect and best wishes to all of you. 

As you know, liberalizing and developing the information sector has always been a priority in building the New Uzbekistan. The fact that the important principles and rules ensuring the free operation of mass media are enshrined in our country's updated Constitution and that the legal framework in this area is being continually improved clearly confirms this. 

Especially in recent years, the wide opportunities being created for freedom of speech and diversity of opinions are further strengthening the participation, role, and influence of media representatives in socio-political processes. 

Today, we all know and highly appreciate the growing role and influence of journalists in developing transparency and openness in our society, establishing public control over the activities of state bodies and their officials, and addressing and resolving the legitimate appeals of our citizens. 

In this regard, it is necessary to note the significant increase in topical publications in newspapers and magazines, broadcasts and programs on television and radio channels, and analytical commentaries and debates on various issues with the participation of specialists and experts on social networks. 

In particular, critical and analytical materials on shortcomings in construction, ecology and environmental protection, road safety, and social and economic issues are waking up some local leaders and officials from their sleep, forcing them to work anew and live with the concerns of the people. 

In short, our passionate and noble journalists and active bloggers are making significant contributions to solving pressing issues in our lives, increasing the effectiveness of our reforms, and elevating the opinions and worldview of our compatriots with their firm stance and truthful words. 

Undoubtedly, all this indicates that our national media is approaching the status of the "fourth estate." At the same time, reaching such a high goal is not easy, and it is natural that there will be obstacles and difficulties along the way. 

However, no matter how difficult it may be, we will continue our work in this area with determination. 

Dear friends! 

Today, the work of the press and the activities of journalists are not only becoming the "fourth estate" but are also turning into a crucial field akin to defense and security. 

This requires more and more courageous and brave individuals like you, who sincerely love their country and are dedicated to their profession. 

Based on this demand, preparing modern journalists with multifaceted professional knowledge and skills, and high moral and intellectual qualities, will remain our priority. 

At the same time, it is an evident truth for all of us that the issue of filling the information space with quality and competitive national content is becoming more urgent than ever. 

Therefore, I believe it is extremely important to cover the events and developments in the world promptly and thoroughly based on deep analysis while taking our national interests into account. 

Moreover, the increasing cases of spreading false and baseless information to deceive and mislead people make it an urgent task to improve the media literacy of our population. The emerging disputes and problems in the information field must be resolved solely within the framework of the law and legal norms. 

I am confident that you, respected representatives of the media, will actively participate in solving such issues. 

Of course, ensuring the legitimate interests of all our compatriots working in this field and encouraging their hard work will continue to be the focus of our attention. 

On this joyous occasion, I once again congratulate you on your professional holiday, wishing you all health, new achievements, and success in your honorable work, and peace and prosperity in your homes. 

Taking this opportunity, I sincerely congratulate the media workers who have been awarded high state honors on the occasion of today's holiday. 

May the joy of discovery and inspiration, and new creative achievements always be with you, dear friends!