The Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone (RAK FTZ) today (November 4) launched the RAK Press Club.

The event was presided over by Sheikh Faisal bin Saqr Al Qasimi, chairman of the RAK FTZ and attended by Oussama El Omari, the zone's CEO, Maryam Al Murshidi Al Shehhi, the zone's assistant director, the renowned journalist Hamdi Qandeel, and an array of journalists and media representatives.

In his opening speech, Sheikh Faisal said the RAK FTZ has set up the RAK Press Club mainly in appreciation of the media's role in the society. "The UAE-based dailies and media are highly regarded, and we express deep appreciation for their work," he said. "We also respect journalists' constant efforts to ensure that their work is fulfilled with total accuracy, thoroughness and transparency," he added.

Sheikh Faisal highlighted the importance of the solid and continued relationship between the RAK FTZ and the media: "The RAK FTZ has long recognised the importance of the role of the media as a tool to inform and empower the community. Through media partnership, we are able to share the vision of Ras Al Khaimah, its successes and growth locally, regionally and on an international level. Since the RAK FTZ was set up, we have been keen to enhance our relationship with the media by creating new channels of communication. Those channels have been a fundamental part of the Free Zone strategy since its inception in order to aid the society and provide open, unbiased information." he said.

Mohammed Al Dhori, the coordinator of the RAK Press Club praised the project as a sign that the RAK FTZ takes the needs of the journalists seriously and provides them with the tools necessary to make their work more effective and comprehensive.

"The launch of the RAK Press Club is a significant initiative by the RAK FTZ and also a real responsibility laid on the shoulders of the club members to achieve the objectives of the club," he said.  

Hamdi Qandeel underlined the importance of supporting the media which plays a crucial role in civil society and public education and advocates good morals and ethics.

The RAK Press Club, which is located in the Business Park in the RAK FTZ, has been provided with advanced network capabilities, infrastructure and equipment to create the perfect environment for media practitioners to do their work as well as organize debates and discussions. Members will receive advanced training in collaboration with renowned organizations. The club will serve as a forum not only for the media people but also for media students and scholars. – TradeArabia News Service