Jordan Times
Tuesday, November 9, 2004
Comprehensive revision of
socio-economic policies to be conducted — Fayez
AMMAN (Petra) — Prime Minister Faisal Fayez announced on Monday that the
government “is about to conduct a comprehensive revision of its socio-economic
policies so as to draw up a comprehensive strategy to be implemented over the
next nine years.
This strategy, he said, will be based on a study of the country's needs.
The premier's remarks were made following an iftar banquet held by the Jordan
Information Centre and attended by Cabinet members, editors and spokespersons
for the various state agencies.
Fayez stressed that his government was sincere in its efforts to reform the
public sector with the goal of upgrading services offered to the public,
“regardless of any difficulties or impediments that might be brought about by
certain forces that resist development and change.”
The government believes in transparency and openness, he asserted, adding that
it would continue dialogue with the various sections of society.
Fayez highlighted the role the media can play in this envisaged strategy, “which
will be institutionalised to become the adopted approach of work.”
He reiterated that the media should work to serve the state rather than the
government.
He also announced that his government is working on legislation designed to
regulate the media, stressing that journalists adhere to their Code of Honour as
they practise their profession.
With regard to official media outlets, he noted that there are plans to upgrade
the performance of Jordan TV, acknowledging that the “low salary scale” at the
station has led to brain drain.
Meanwhile, in response to a question Fayez said the government “has never
interfered and would not interfere in the future, in the election of the Lower
House speaker.”