New York, November 13 (QNA) - Qatar has reiterated its condemnation of the killing of journalists and media workers, calling for their protection under international humanitarian law and relevant UN resolutions to end impunity for such crimes.

The statement came from Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al-Thani, a member of Qatar's delegation to the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, speaking before the Fourth Committee on issues related to information at UN headquarters in New York.

He underlined the importance of access to accurate and reliable information for states, organizations, and individuals, noting the key role of the UN Department of Global Communications and its network of information centres in promoting awareness, education, and outreach to strengthen the credibility of the United Nations.

Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the vital role of the UN's Special Information Program on the Question of Palestine, especially amid the current critical circumstances surrounding the Palestinian issue, which he said require intensified and objective communication efforts.

He drew attention to the continuing challenges facing journalists in conflict zones, citing Palestinian journalists in Gaza who have faced grave risks and paid a heavy price in their pursuit of truth and duty.

Qatar, he said, pays tribute to journalists and media professionals - particularly who cover conflicts and humanitarian crises under difficult conditions, emphasizing the need to ensure their safety and protection.

He also underscored the importance of preserving the UN's archival documents as a vital institutional memory and a shared human heritage, praising the progress made in digitizing the organization's historical records to make them accessible online.

Sheikh Mohammed reaffirmed Qatar's pride in contributing USD 7.5 million to support and sponsor this digitization project in two previous phases, and confirmed the country's continued commitment to backing this important initiative in the future. (QNA)