MUSCAT: Nov 2: The Ministry of Information on Tuesday honored journalists, authors and media entrepreneurs who got international prizes in 2015 and 2016 in a ceremony presided over by Dr Abdulmunim bin Mansour al Hasani, Minister of Information. “Omani Journalists and authors have achieved commendable accolades across the region and beyond in the past year and it gives the ministry pleasure in recognising these writers”, Dr Al Hasani said. Salim Awadh al Najar, who spoke on behalf of the journalists, said the international awards indicate the quality of proactive support that the nation represented by the Ministry of Information is giving and the media freedom prevailing in the country.

A number of books on the Sultanate and His Majesty Sultan Qaboos’  peace-making role were also launched. The minister also launched the book of “Words and speeches of His Majesty” which is published by the Ministry. In all, 32 winners received awards in various journalism categories. Abdullah al Alian, a writer with Oman Arabic daily, sister publication of the Observer, got the Taryam Omran journalism award for best Article at the GCC level. Oman News Agency (ONA) was named Best Arab News Agency in local and Arab tourism coverage along with Saudi Press Agency (SPA).