The overhaul of Bahrain Radio and TV Corporation (BRTC) and the Bahrain News Agency (BNA) are on the fast track, said Culture and Information Minister Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa.

The ministry has already embarked on a comprehensive development plan covering all media sectors, she said adding that part of the plan has already been put into effect with the focus on developing the foreign media and restructuring BNA in addition to administrative reforms and training schemes.

The development of BRTC will be implemented as part of a totally new culture and part of an agreement signed with Vaheed Associate Brand Future company which was tasked with overhauling the establishment in a nine- to 18-month period, the minister said.

The strategy will be based on the culture and history of the kingdom while taking into account future challenges, Shaikha Mai remarked.

The company has assumed its duties since early March, she added.

Four companies, specialising in the field of TV development, were invited two months ago to submit their proposals while others will be invited soon to do the same.

'We signed a six-month contract with renowned Monte Carlo presenter Huyam Hmoy who arrived in Bahrain three days ago and began her duties,' said Shaikha Mai.

Kuwait Finance House has promised to finance the development of the Holy Quran radio channel, she said.

The minister also said a committee, similar to the Museum Friends Committee, had been set up to look into ways of developing Bahrain TV.-TradeArabia News Service