Ambassador's remarks to media trainees

From left to right: Ambassador Moller; Mrs. Martine Conde President of the CNC; George Kazolias trainer and Leigh Rieder Public Affairs Officer (State Dept)

Excellency, President of the National Communication Council, Madame Conde

Distinguished Media Participants Colleagues and Guests

And a special Welcome to George Kazolias, who is conducting his second workshop at the U. S. Embassy in Conakry

 This morning, we salute the work of journalists, editors, photographers, videographers, website managers, and everyone who works to provide the public with accurate unbiased information that can serve as the stage for democratic debate in Guinea.

Journalism is never easy, but it especially difficult in places where independent journalism is the exception rather than the rule, where self-interested economic and political interests manipulate the media, and where those who dare to report critical stories are threatened with harassment, law suits, or physical attacks. 

There is nothing that will more effectively assist Guinea to move to a brighter future than a truly free press staffed by trained responsible journalists -- who responsibly work to eradicate rumors by reporting the facts that the public needs to know to make informed decisions.

Democracy needs independent journalists who represent the interests of the citizens, not special interests.  For democracies, the media and its journalists represent a force that searches out the facts on behalf of the people.  Many Guineans have told me Guinea needs more of that kind of journalism.  My heartfelt hope for Guinea’s future is that all of you will be that sort of journalist.

Our program that begins today is titled “Investigative Journalism.”  It will review theoretical and practical fundamentals of journalism and I hope it will challenge your point of view by providing a perspective from abroad.  Professor Kazolias has come to us from Paris where he has worked in media for more than 20 years as a radio and television reporter, and as an editor, producer, correspondent and a professor of journalism.

His workshop will discuss issues of journalism that include credibility, accuracy, human interest, description and background.  It will aim especially toward reporters who have as yet a limited experience in radio, TV, and print media but also at young people who have demonstrated their determination to pursue a career in journalism.

In America, we believe fundamentally that a well-informed citizenry is the strongest guardian of its own liberties.  I hope our workshop persuades each of you to undertake a journalistic responsibility to help your fellow Guineans be informed.

Thank you.