The government in Tajikistan must support journalists’ rights to free speech, according to a statement by U.S. Ambassador, Manuel P. Micaller Jr. in honor of Tajikistan’s Press Day, which is observed on March 11th. He said in a Facebook post commemorating the holiday that he was speaking on behalf of the U.S. Embassy in Tajikistan. The statement was first reported by the ASIA-Plus news portal.
“Mass media that is free and independent enables society to hear various viewpoints, make just and reasonable decisions, and stay informed about events,” he wrote in the post. He called independent mass media the foundation of democracy in Tajikistan and around the world.
The United States supports Tajikistan’s efforts to train journalists, the post reminded readers, stating that “this is accomplished through study tours, English language classes, exchange programs, and technical assistance for the media.”
Additionally, Micaller asked the U.S. Government to uphold journalists’ freedom of speech and defend their rights.
