PAS Jordan Request for Journalism

UNCLAS AMMAN 000996

SIPDIS

IIP/T/IS (PLATT),IIP/G/NEA-SA (SCOTT),IIP/G/NEA
(BOCHNER),NEA/PPD (BENZE)

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: OIIP OEXC SCUL JO
SUBJECT: PAS Jordan Request for Journalism
Workshop Trainer on Economic, Business and
Financial Reporting



1. PAS Amman requests IIP assistance in
identifying an experienced journalism trainer to
conduct a workshop on economic, business and
financial reporting. As Jordan's economy has
expanded in recent years as a result of
significant economic reform measures, the media
has not always done a satisfactory job following
these trends and explaining them to the public.
With key elements of these reforms related
directly to U.S. policy initiatives, such as
conclusion of a U.S.-Jordan Free Trade Agreement,
it is important for the media to have a better
understanding of economic fundamentals so that
these changes are reported accurately and
objectively.


2. This request is part of PAS Amman's ongoing
media professionalization program, which began in
FY 2000. We would convene a group of 10-15
journalists who cover economic, business and
financial issues in Jordan's newspapers and
magazines. We seek a trainer who has either
journalism or teaching experience in this subject
matter. The ideal length for this workshop is
three to four days consecutive. We would offer
simultaneous translation for those participants
without English language ability.


3. Post requests funding of this program from PAS
Amman's I-Bucks account. Post is willing to
include a number of Iraqi journalists (up to five)
in this program if Embassy Baghdad can identify
and cover the costs of suitable participants. PAS
Amman would handle all logistics in Amman for
Iraqi participants, but cannot cover costs of
their participation.


4. Our recommendation of a theme and timing for
the program is as follows:

Workshop on Economic/Business/Financial Reporting

Weeks of March 13-20 or March 20-24. Location
will be in one of Amman's hotels, TBD.


4. The control officer for this program will be IO
Justin Siberell, Tel: 962-6-590-6000, Ext. 6618;
Fax: 962-6-592-0121. HALE