The annual congress, which is organized by the World Association of Newspapers and News Publishers (WAN-IFRA), is a forum which brings together more than 1000 newspaper publishers and chief editors from over 80 countries

PRETORIA, South Africa, June 6, 2017/APO/ -- 

President Jacob Zuma will on Wednesday, 07 June 2017, address the Opening Ceremony of the 69th World News Media Congress which provides a platform for international press to reaffirm its commitment to defend and promote freedom of expression, in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.  

The annual congress, which is organized by the World Association of Newspapers and News Publishers (WAN-IFRA), is a forum which brings together more than 1000 newspaper publishers and chief editors from over 80 countries to discuss issues and challenges facing the media sector.

“South Africa is honoured to host this important gathering of international press on behalf of the African continent. We look forward to a meaningful dialogue and innovative ideas that will improve the media sector and ensure that the media play a leading role in building a peaceful and prosperous world,” said the President. 

President Zuma has reiterated government’s commitment to the ideals of a free and independent press as well as the protection of right to freedom of expression and access to information as entrenched in the Constitution of the Republic.

The Congress will take place as follows:
Date: Wednesday, 07 June 2017
Time: 18h00
Venue: Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, Durban

Distributed by APO on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Presidency.