BEIRUT: Under the patronage of Information Minister Ziad Makary, the Ministry of Information, in cooperation with UNICEF, unveiled the official website of the French-language “Radio Lebanon” channel alongside its updated Arabic-language website. This initiative is part of a collaborative project between the Ministry and UNICEF aimed at enhancing public media’s ability to deliver precise news and promote awareness about children’s rights in media.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, the launch ceremony, held at the Ministry’s premises in Sanayeh, was attended by an array of dignitaries. Present were Director General of the Ministry Dr. Hassan Falha, Director of Radio Lebanon Mohamed Gharib, Director of Lebanese Studies and Publications Khodor Majed, UNICEF Representative in Lebanon Akil Ayar, Director of the Media and Communication Program at UNICEF – Beirut Christophe Boulerac, Director of Radio Lebanon Programs Rita Njeim, Assistant Director General of Tele-Liban Wafa Haidar, Advisor to the Minister of Information for Francophone Affairs Elissar Naddaf, and several media professionals.
Minister Makary announced the upcoming launch of a similar ‘Lebanon TV’ website next week. He expressed hopes for continuity in governance, management, and projects, crediting the new website’s launch to sustained efforts and coordination between UNICEF and Radio Lebanon. Makary emphasized the importance of Lebanese youth taking leadership roles in the country’s institutions and political landscape.
Makary lauded the new websites’ launch, acknowledging the caretaker government’s adherence to principles amidst constraints. Despite past conflicts and tragedies, he credited the Ministry of Information’s management and its local and international partners for the accomplishments. He highlighted Lebanon’s media heritage, noting Radio Lebanon’s inception in 1938 and Lebanon Television’s start in 1959, stressing the need to protect this legacy.
He mentioned a decision by the Council of Ministers for collaboration between Lebanon TV and Ministry of Information institutions, particularly Radio Lebanon, in technical and artistic domains. Makary called for this cooperation to manifest in joint programs, fostering new opportunities for youth in state-building and administration after the election of a new president.
Minister Makary expressed gratitude to UNICEF’s Director and team for their unwavering support and technical assistance to the Ministry of Information.
In his remarks, Ayar emphasized the public media’s critical role as a dependable information source. He highlighted UNICEF’s support for Radio Lebanon, underscoring its commitment to media’s role in raising awareness, especially regarding children’s rights. Ayar pointed out the global media challenge of improving children’s image and promoting their participation while shielding them from harmful influences.
The UNICEF representative reiterated the importance of accurate information dissemination and Radio Lebanon’s pivotal role in reaching both local and international Lebanese communities. He asserted that the radio’s electronic platform would serve as a credible source of news, culture, and dialogue, accessible worldwide through the newly launched website.