Burkina Faso: What can we remember from the first edition of the «Press-Diplomacy Days»

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Cooperation, and Burkinabes Abroad, through its Department of Communication and Press Relations, is holding the first edition of the «Press-Diplomacy Days» in Ouagadougou since Monday, May 22, 2023.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Cooperation, and Burkinabes Abroad, Her Excellency Olivia ROUAMBA, who presided over the ceremony, commended this initiative, which primarily aims to recognize the work carried out by the Burkinabe press.

«This is a particularly special initiative as we want diplomacy and the press to be in harmony, given the unique context of multidimensional crises that Burkina Faso is experiencing. It is a context in which information is invaluable», stated the Burkinabe Minister of Foreign Affairs.

«Diplomacy serves as the interface with the international community, and the information and communication sector is a vital part of diplomacy. It is therefore crucial for us to come together, inform ourselves, and raise awareness to convey the right message and enable the country to successfully overcome the current challenges», concluded Her Excellency Olivia ROUAMBA.

The President of the Superior Council of Communication Mr. Abdoulazize BAMOGO, expressed his satisfaction with this initiative.

He stated that «the current context in our country requires that government actors and those in the media space engage in dialogue».

He expressed his hope that other ministries and institutions would also participate in this approach.

The Director of Communication and Press Relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Relwende Céline ILBOUDO, mentioned that the Press-Diplomacy Days provide an opportunity to further promote the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The objective is to establish stronger press relations and also encourage media professionals specializing in diplomacy.

During the 48-hour event, around forty journalists from both public and private media will receive presentations on the functioning of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the regulatory framework of diplomatic missions and posts, the legal regime of diplomatic privileges and immunities, and how the media can contribute to the promotion of Burkinabe diplomacy.

H. Nelchael