In Uzbekistan, 27 June – Press and Mass Media Workers Day is widely celebrated.

A great attention paid by President Islam Karimov to the national mass media requires even more activity, initiative and alertness of journalists, to live and work with a sense of belonging to the fate of Motherland.

These aspects are being even more clearly manifested in these days, when the country is widely celebrating 27 June – Press and Mass Media Workers Day.

Veterans of journalism, who have made a worthy contribution to the development of the sphere, famous journalists, creative and technical personnel of all types of media, publishers, printers, teachers of journalism faculties, young writers, representatives of various ministries and departments, public organizations were invited to the solemn meeting held at the Uzbek National Academic Drama Theatre.

The State advisor to the President Kh.Sultonov read the congratulatory greeting of Islam Karimov to the workers of press and mass media.

Chairman of the Creative Union of Journalists of Uzbekistan Sh.Gulomov noted that the role and importance of media is increased more and more in the process of informing people the essence and content of the reforms, the formation of public opinion and raising the socio-political activity of our compatriots.

In the years of independence in our country, the number of media outlets has increased almost four times. If in 1991, the total number of mass media was 395 units, at present – 1250. Before independence, all the media structures in the country: newspapers, magazines and TV channels were the bodies of state power and governance. Today, more than 60% of the mass communication media registered in our country are considered private.

During the meeting, the journalists who have made great contribution with their art to the promotion of sport and healthy lifestyle, widespread involvement of young people to the sports, were awarded by the Ministry of Culture and Sports.

A concert program with the participation of masters of art and young performers was presented.

Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan E.Basithanova and A.Aripov took part in the event, UzA informs.