When I was invited to sit on the National Media Group Public Council I asked what it does, because even the state-owned TV channels have nothing like this. It transpired that the group aims to organize its business in a way that maintains the balance between public and commercial interests, to pursue its commercial objectives while at the same time promoting and preserving cultural values, educating young people and fostering an exchange of information between society, business and government. And the Public Council is essential to ensure that these fine plans become more than just words.

I realized I had been given an offer that I simply couldn’t refuse. So I accepted it. On February 2008 I was elected Chairman of the Council – a great honour and responsibility for me.

I want to invite everyone to take part in this excellent project, so that it really is a truly “public” council.