Identifier
Created
Classification
Origin
05MANAMA682
2005-05-11 15:00:00
UNCLASSIFIED
Embassy Manama
Cable title:  

NEA PDAS CHENEY'S PRESS COVERAGE IN BAHRAIN

Tags:  PREL SCUL OIIP KPAO BA 
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UNCLAS MANAMA 000682 

SIPDIS

STATE FOR NEA/FO; NEA/PPD; NEA/ARP

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PREL SCUL OIIP KPAO BA
SUBJECT: NEA PDAS CHENEY'S PRESS COVERAGE IN BAHRAIN


UNCLAS MANAMA 000682

SIPDIS

STATE FOR NEA/FO; NEA/PPD; NEA/ARP

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PREL SCUL OIIP KPAO BA
SUBJECT: NEA PDAS CHENEY'S PRESS COVERAGE IN BAHRAIN



1. PDAS Elizabeth Cheney conducted a press roundtable
during her May 10 visit to Bahrain to discuss the Forum
for the Future and U.S. support for democracy in the
region. Press reports on May 11 generally reflected the
editorial slant of the Bahraini media with pro-government
papers focusing on Cheney's positive comments about
Bahrain's reforms, and independent newspaper Al Wasat
highlighting her remarks about the need for continued
political openness.


2. Pro-government Al-Ayam and Bahrain Tribune both
headlined, "US Official Praises Kingdom's Openness and
Freedom," and Gulf Daily News headlined, "US Hails
Bahrain Reforms" and "Process of Change in the Arab World
Praised." Al Wasat wrote about the plans for the Forum
for the Future and Cheney's comments on the need for
continued political reforms and economic openness. Al
Wasat also highlighted the important role that civil
societies hope to play in the Forum. Many of Al Wasat's
reporters are active in non-governmental or political
organizations, and their coverage tends to reflect their
involvement in reform issues.


3. Press coverage of Cheney's meeting with Shaikha
Sabika, wife of the King, and other leading Bahraini
women, reinforced the important role of women in
Bahrain's society. Press stories centered on the goals
of MEPI's women's pillar, including the role of
Bahraini women in civil society, and preparations for
increased women's involvement in the 2006 Municipal
Council and Parliamentary elections. All Bahraini
newspapers quoted Cheney's remarks hailing the experience
of Bahraini women as evidenced by their leading positions
in the government and society.

Monroe