KUWAIT: Kuwaiti Minister of Information Mohammad Al-Jabri stressed the significant role of mass media in rebuffing rumors over the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) situation. Speaking to KUNA and Kuwait TV while visiting KUNA headquarters on Thursday, Jabri, who doubles as Minister of State for Youth Affairs, said that amid the exceptional circumstances in the country, mass media has a crucial part to play in speedily covering relevant state decisions and precautions, as well as fighting rumors purposed to sow panic among people.

Jabri spoke highly of the effort of the official media in delivering real and reliable information to citizens and residents thanks to their news credibility and public trust. He added that he is very proud of KUNA's great work for covering all government decisions and moves to mitigate the fallout of the novel coronavirus, while strictly abiding by utter credibility and transparency.

The minister also voiced much appreciation to KUNA Board Chairman and Director-General Sheikh Mubarak Al-Duaij Al-Ibrahim Al-Sabah and Deputy Director-General for Administrative, Financial and Communication Sector and Editor-in-Chief Abdulhameed Malak for their fervent efforts and for KUNA's distinguished performance under the current critical circumstances.

Meanwhile, Sheikh Mubark Al-Duaij thanked Minister Jabri for his unremitting backing to the country's official news agency. He underscored KUNA's eagerness to play its due national media part in providing people with true and reliable news and information, and in throwing much weight behind the government's endeavor to keep the wellbeing and safety of people. - KUNA