Luanda — Angolan Social Communication minister, Manuel Rabelais, Friday in Luanda, pointed out the restructuring of the public media organs and their technical and technological modernisation as the priorities for 2009, with a view to a more efficient functioning.

Manuel Rabelais said so while presenting the Government's share of the State Budget allocated to the sector, to the MPs of the 6th Commission of the National Assembly (Angolan Parliament).

With this, according to the official, the ministry is seeking to promote the construction of a plural, competitive and impartial National System of Social Communication that contributes to the strengthening of democracy.

He said the Government is thus seeking to expand public media coverage to the whole national territory, contribute to a media legal and institutional framework based on the defence of the rights and guarantees of the citizens and functioning of the market rules.

Manuel Rabelais announced the start of the construction of a Higher Institute of Social Communication to train media personnel.

He also announced contacts for the construction of headquarters for the media organs, namely the Angola Press Agency (Angop), Angola Public Television (TPA), Angola National Radio (RNA) and "Edições Novembro".

The minister also spoke of continued efforts towards the adoption of a new and modern press law adjusted to the present context of the country.

Accompanying the minister at the meeting were the directors of Angop, Manuel da Conceição, RNA, Eduardo Magalhães, Journalists Training Centre (Cefojor), Albino Carlos, and advisors.