RIYADH: Editors of online newspapers have asked for government support, including recognition of “the representatives of new media”. This call was made during their meeting with Abdul Aziz Khoja, Minister of Culture and Information, in Riyadh Monday. Fahd Al-Jabr, Editor-in-Chief of Sahat Al-Majma'ah electronic newspaper, said one of the most significant challenges facing news websites is that some officials do not recognize their credentials. He said correspondents from online newspapers are not allowed to enter sports stadiums. It called on the ministry to issue them with press cards. Hadi Al-Dowsari, Editor-in-Chief of Hadath online newspaper, said that some officials “do not trust the new media”. He called on the ministry to organize special training programs for those working in the field of electronic media. Muhammad Naser Al-Asmari, Editor-in-Chief of Al-Wikad online newspaper, called on government to protect electronic media representatives, who are allegedly often subjected to harassment. Saud Al-Rafa, Hail electronic newspaper's Editor-in-Chief, called for the protection of online newspapers' intellectual property. Participants at the meeting praised the minister for organizing the gathering and said he listened to their demands promised he would support their initiatives. The meeting discussed topics related to electronic publishing, proposals for the development of new media, the support of the ministry for the development of electronic works, copyright of publishing houses and authors, licensing of websites, constructive criticism, and dissemination of correct information. The meeting was attended by deputies of the Ministry of Culture and Information and a number of media personnel.
