Damascus, February 05 (QNA) - The celebrations for the relaunch of Damascus Radio in its new format, which includes a package of more than 100 programs, have begun in Damascus, Syria, coinciding with the 79th anniversary of its founding.

During the relaunch ceremony, Syrian Minister of Information Hamza Al Mustafa emphasized that Damascus Radio represents a long-standing media legacy, and that its development comes within the framework of re-establishing Syrian media on modern institutional foundations, capable of keeping pace with digital transformations and enhancing interaction with the public.

In turn, General Director of the Radio and Television Authority Alaa Barsilo said that radio is engraved in the conscience of Syrian and Arab generations, and that the current stage represents a restoration of its natural role after years of marginalization.

In the same context, the General Director of the Radio and Television Authority told Qatar News Agency (QNA) that Damascus Radio is one of the oldest radio stations in the Arab world, and is the second oldest Arab radio station with more than 79 years.

He said that the radio station is working to preserve its original spirit and character, in parallel with its technical and media development and enhancing its presence in the digital world, so that Damascus Radio becomes a real communication platform with the public, restoring it to its history and heritage.

He added that a number of programs linked to the memory of Syrians, such as the series "rule of justice” and " court of conscience," have been revived after being developed technically, in addition to expanding the scope of broadcasting to include the Nilesat satellite, in addition to applications and the website.

He stressed that expanding access to the public is a priority at the present stage, through the multiplicity of broadcasting methods between traditional radio and digital and satellite platforms, with the aim of reaching different segments within Syria and the Arab countries.

He noted that there are broadcasting stations distributed across the Syrian geography, some of which have been rehabilitated, while work continues on developing the infrastructure of the rest of the stations.

In a related context, Director of Damascus Radio Mohammed Al Sheikh told QNA that the new programming schedule combines preserving historical programs and launching modern programs that reflect the requirements of the current stage.

He noted the continuation of programs such as "rule of justice," "court of conscience," and other programs with a firm presence in the minds of listeners.

He said that the next phase will witness the launch of more than 108 diverse programs, including service, political, cultural and social programs, reflecting the radio's transition from a limited traditional broadcasting pattern to an integrated system that operates around the clock via a special website, in addition to a satellite frequency that offers a mix of radio material and visual programs.

He added that the new plan also includes producing visual content dedicated to publication via social media platforms, including 'Damascus podcast' and 'Damascus history podcast,' as part of attracting new segments of the audience, especially the youth category. (QNA)