Amman: Jordan News Agency "Petra" celebrated its 57th anniversary on Thursday, marking nearly six decades as a trusted national news source by launching a suite of modern digital services. Speaking at the ceremony, Minister of Government Communication Mohammad Momani highlighted the agency's significant role in documenting Jordan's political, economic, social, and cultural development since its founding.
According to Jordan News Agency, Momani, who also serves as the government's official spokesperson, emphasized Petra's increasing importance in combating misinformation and false content. He stressed that official media must extend beyond mere reporting to include context and explanations of how the news impacts citizens. The minister advocated for ongoing investment in digital transformation and the integration of multimedia content and artificial intelligence (AI) to widen the agency's reach while upholding professional standards and journalistic ethics.
Additionally, Momani underlined the necessity of enhancing journalists' skills in digital media, data journalism, and fact-checking, as well as strengthening Petra's coverage across all governorates. He praised Petra's staff and correspondents both within Jordan and internationally, expressing confidence in the agency's continued role as a leading national media institution and a reliable platform for conveying Jordan's message globally.
During the event, Petra's Board Chairman, Nabeel Ghishan, announced the launch of the agency's redesigned website. He noted that the upgrade reflects a changing media landscape where audiences engage as active participants rather than passive consumers. Alongside the website launch, several new digital initiatives were unveiled, including an aerial photography service, a podcast platform dedicated to political, economic, sports, and cultural affairs, and "Petra Memory," a digital archive featuring historical photographs captured by the agency's photographers.
The celebration concluded with Petra honoring several organizations that have supported its development projects, including Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Group, Orange Jordan, Jordan Phosphate Mines Company, the Ministry of Public Works and Housing, and the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship. Petra Director-General Fairouz Mubaideen also presented a commemorative plaque to Minister Momani in recognition of his support for the agency.