Matviyenko calls Interfax "quality journalism" example
MOSCOW. Sept 23 (Interfax) - Interfax has become "a brand of prompt, credible and unbiased information," Federation Council Chairperson Valentina Matviyenko said.
"You are the acknowledged leader of the domestic information market in terms of citations in foreign and Russian media; you have hundreds of employees and 4,000 news stories posted daily," says Matviyenko's message congratulating Interfax on its 25th anniversary.
"Twenty-five years ago, many people in our country asked each other what that phenomenon was, a private news agency Interfax aspiring for independence, and what it could do against the backdrop of all-powerful state structures operating in that field," the upper chamber's speaker recalled. In the words of Matviyenko, "One could hardly believe that the agency that challenged state-run information aces was formed by a group of young journalists, that a fax machine was their main means of reception and transmission of news and that they had a catastrophic shortage of rooms and money, too."
"But they possessed professionalism, the wish to create genuinely free and contemporary journalism in our country, incessant enthusiasm, creativity and initiative organically combined with a business-like manner and good organization," the Federation Council chairperson said.
"You remain loyal to the high principles you have been guided with from the start. I think a considerable role is being played by the stable core of the Interfax personnel, the caring attitude to your traditions and the ability to share them with young employees," Matviyenko said.
"When our chamber was at its outset, Interfax was amongst the first media outlets accredited by us," the Federation Council chairperson emphasized. "Since then, nothing has cast a gloom over our cooperation. Your coverage of parliament activity is invariably prompt, objective and well-wishing. This is what quality journalism is," the congratulatory message runs.
"Let me congratulate you on your 25th anniversary once again! I sincerely wish you new successes in your work, health and wellbeing!" Matviyenko said in conclusion.