World Association Press Council (WAPC) celebrated its 32nd anniversary in a virtual meeting held today. In a meeting chaired by Dr. Sule Akar (Turkish Cypriot Press Council), the Press Council welcomed the newly appointed Chairman of Nepal, Bal Krishna Basnet. Giving best wishes on the occasion of the establishment day, the newly appointed chairperson Basnet expressed his commitment to co-operate on press freedom, public information, and human rights. He said that he was honored with the opportunity to work with the World Press Council and would use his experience in the field of journalism and law in this context. He emphasized that all nations should work together to reduce the impact of the COVID pandemic in the field of journalism.

Aflatun Amashow, First Vice President of the World Press Council (Azerbaijan Press Council), and Kishor Shrestha, General Secretary (National Media Network Nepal), addressed the program.

Speaking on the program, Secretary-General Shrestha said even though the meeting could not be held physically, the Council will remain active in resolving the challenges faced by journalism globally. He thanked all for participating, albeit virtually, and for their warm wishes on this occasion of the 32nd anniversary.

At the meeting, the President of the World Press Council, Dr. Acker stated that freedom of the press is also related to human rights, and WPC will always strive to protect it. He pledged to coordinate with the Council of Member States for responsible journalism.

Mayo Phant Pyn, the newly appointed chairman of the Myanmar Press Council, was welcomed at the event.

The event was facilitated by CK Nayak (India), International Coordinator of the World Press Council. Dr. Tamar Atabarut (Turkish Press Council) also gave a vote of thanks. The World Association of Press Council was established in 1989.

Photos: Mr. Bipul pandey, Press Council Nepal.