Baku:The Media and Broadcasting Council organized the CICA Media Forum in Baku, focusing on 'Building Trust through Media in a Polarized World.' Hikmet Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan, delivered President Ilham Aliyev's address at the event.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Kairat Sarybay, Secretary General of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA), highlighted Azerbaijan's contributions to connectivity and digitalization. He emphasized the importance of the forum amidst geopolitical tensions, climate challenges, and economic pressures, which aim to foster mutual understanding.
Khalaf Khalafov, Representative of the President of Azerbaijan, stressed the need for objective and responsible media to counter disinformation and hate speech. He noted that Azerbaijan prioritizes cooperation in the media sector to combat disinformation and promote responsible journalism.
The forum featured a panel session on 'Azerbaijan's Chairmanship: Initiatives, Cooperation, Results,' where Samaddin Asadov, Azerbaijan's Deputy Minister of Digital Development and Transport, discussed strengthening ties and economic integration through transport corridors.
Mehmet Danis, President of Turkey's Radio and Television Supreme Council, underscored the role of organizations like CICA in addressing global challenges. Other speakers highlighted Azerbaijan's strategic position amid international security crises, emphasizing regional issues' growing importance.
A panel session on 'The Role of Media in Strengthening Social Cohesion and Intercultural Dialogue' was moderated by Shafag Mehraliyeva. Wajiha Qamar, Pakistan's Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training, emphasized the media's role in promoting mutual understanding and trust, highlighting its responsibility in shaping public opinion.
Kobuljon Akhmedov from Uzbekistan and Montaser Abu Zeid, Palestine's Ambassador to Kazakhstan, discussed the media's role in raising awareness and the opportunities and risks posed by AI in journalism. Zaid Al Nawaiseh from Jordan stressed the importance of transparency and ethical standards in information processes.
Other speakers, including representatives from Kyrgyzstan and Cambodia, emphasized the media's role in building trust and promoting intercultural dialogue. They highlighted the need for reliable media to facilitate diverse views based on verified information.
The first CICA Media Forum concluded after discussions on strengthening mutual trust in the region, bringing together officials, media representatives, and experts from member states.