TEHRAN Emphasizing the significant role played by press in mobilizing public opinion, the deputy minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance for publications and publicity, Ahmad Bourqani Sunday said if the people today are in a position to determine their own political destiny, it is because of the valuable services rendered by the press and publications of the country. Addressing a press conference yesterday marking the International Day for Freedom of Press and on the eve of the week-long fifth Publications Festival due to open on May 11, Bourqani emphasized the importance of the freedom of press and hoped the journalists in Iran would continue their activities freely and without any fear of self sensorship.

It is alleged that certain publications were violating the press code, he said and added there were press laws, courts and the publications guild which could deal effectively with any violation of the press code. Bourqani further stressed the framework for publications was clear and predetermined and any violation of press code would be dealt with accordingly. He said that any confrontation with the press should not be construed as an encounter with the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance but it should be viewed as a blow to the freedom.

Bourqani praised the role of the press and said that the Iranian publications were the most law abiding. Their role and functions have been clearly defined in the press laws. The press brings about fruitful change and transforms the society for betterment, Bourqani said and added that the publications today enjoy greater confidence of the readers and this was the reason that the circulation of the publications was increasing by every passing day.

The deputy minister in the end promised to provide all possible legal protections to the Iranian publications and further pave the way for their smooth functioning within the framework of the constitution.