Amman, July 16 (Petra)- 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 said the agency has documented Jordan's political, economic, social, and cultural development since its founding, helping preserve the country's national record while conveying Jordan's image to audiences at home and abroad.
Momani , who is also the government's official spokesperson, said Petra's role has become increasingly important amid the rapid spread of misinformation and false content, stressing that official media "must go beyond reporting the news" by providing context and explaining its impact on citizens.
The minister called for continued investment in digital transformation, multimedia content, and artificial intelligence (AI) to expand the agency's reach while maintaining professional standards and journalistic ethics.
He also emphasized the importance of developing journalists' skills in digital media, data journalism, and fact-checking, while strengthening Petra's coverage across all governorates.
Commending Petra's staff and correspondents in Jordan and abroad, he expressed confidence that Petra will "continue serving as a leading national media institution and a trusted platform for delivering Jordan's message to the world." During the celebration, Petra’s Board Chairman Nabeel Ghishan announced the launch of the agency’s redesigned website, noting the upgrade reflects a shifting media landscape where audiences are active participants rather than passive consumers.
The agency also unveiled several new digital initiatives, including an aerial photography service, a podcast platform covering political, economic, sports, and cultural affairs, and "Petra Memory," a digital archive featuring historical photographs captured by the agency's photographers, along with equipment used since its establishment to document the evolution of Jordan's national news agency.
Concluding the event, Petra honored several organizations that 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 Momani in recognition of his support for the agency.
//Petra// HA
