Doha — Al-Jazeera television has spoken out against recommendations from the Arab League seeking to stop Arab satellite channels from offending governments in the region. The Qatar-based pan-Arab television network said in a statement, "Al-Jazeera considers the adoption of the charter... a risk to the freedom of expression in the Arab world," Tuesday 12 February 2008 saw information ministers of the 22-member Arab League vote in favour of the guidlines, which are not legally binding. Qatar was … [Read more...] about Al-Jazeera opposes Arab media restrictions
Pay-TV
Disney to up stake in UTV
Mumbai/Burbank, California – The Walt Disney Company (Southeast Asia) Pte Ltd will raise its stake in UTV Software Communications Ltd to 32.1% on a fully diluted share capital basis, with new investments of US$200 million, subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals. Disney’s investment is to be made through a preferential allotment of new UTV shares. In addition, Disney will make an open tender offer to UTV shareholders as required under Indian securities regulations and … [Read more...] about Disney to up stake in UTV
Australia Network re-launches Newshour with Jim Middleton
Australia Network will re-launch its flagship news program Newshour with Jim Middleton to be broadcast over 44 countries in Asia Pacific. The re-launch event will take place on February 20, 2008 at Parliament House in Canberra, while the show has debuted on February 18. Hosted by veteran Australian journalist Jim Middleton, the show focuses on events of the day, panel discussions with commentators and experts on issues and perspectives of Australia and Asia Pacific. Bruce Dover, chief executive, … [Read more...] about Australia Network re-launches Newshour with Jim Middleton
Al Jazeera English to debut in Vietnam on VTC Digital TV
Al Jazeera and VTC Digital Television have signed a deal to launch Al Jazeera English in Vietnam. The news and current affairs channel will be available to 2 million households throughout Vietnam on Channel 9 of VTC’s digital terrestrial service offered by Vietnam Multimedia Corporation (VMC), a subsidiary of Vietnam’s Ministry of Information and Communications. VMC’s Vice CEO Le Van Khuong said, “(VTC Digital Television is) using all-digital technology from production to … [Read more...] about Al Jazeera English to debut in Vietnam on VTC Digital TV
Writers’ strike ends
Los Angeles – Hollywood screenwriters have ended their strike following a 92.5% vote by members of the Writer Guild of America (WGA) in favour of resuming work after a three-month long dispute. The vote follows the presentation of a new contract to WGA members over the Feb 9 weekend. A second vote to ratify the contract will be held on Feb 25. Writers ceased work on Nov 5 and have caused TV programs, including the Golden Globes awards show, and movies to be postponed or cancelled, and has … [Read more...] about Writers’ strike ends
StarHub scores EURO 2008 broadcast rights
Singapore – StarHub has won the exclusive broadcast rights to the 2008 UEFA European Football Championship (EURO 2008) to take place in Austria and Switzerland, from June 7 – 29, 2008. Rights cover live telecasts of all 31 matches from group phase to the final, as well as opening and closing ceremonies. The pay-TV operator is also planning to offer all EURO 2008 matches in HD. Adit Harinasuta, Head, Services & Solutions, StarHub said, “This win further augments StarHub's … [Read more...] about StarHub scores EURO 2008 broadcast rights
