(MENAFN- Trend News Agency)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 24. Strengthening
media relations between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan is a necessity of
our times, Executive Director of the media Development Agency of
Azerbaijan Ahmad Ismayilov said, Trend reports.
Ismayilov said the statement in his speech at the opening of the
Uzbek-Azerbaijani Media Forum "In Search of Truth in the Digital
Age: Combating Disinformation" in Uzbekistan's Tashkent.
"On behalf of the Azerbaijani delegation, I express my deep
gratitude to the organizers for facilitating the Uzbek-Azerbaijani
media forum on this timely issue for both societies and the
international media landscape, for the sincere fraternal attitude
and hospitality shown to us, and I also welcome all the guests who
are participating in this prestigious forum.
First of all, I would like to emphasize that as a result of the
strong political will of the President of the Republic of
Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, and the President of the Republic of
Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, laid the groundwork for a new
historical phase in our relations, as well as the intensive ties
that have made a significant contribution to the development of our
regions, have a dynamic impact on all areas, including the media.
Mutual visits of the leaders of both countries are an important
historical event in terms of developing relations and strategic
partnership between the Turkic states. These visits, as well as the
documents signed within their framework, are a clear manifestation
of friendship and brotherhood between the Azerbaijani and Uzbek
peoples," the director said.
Ismayilov remarked that mutual visits between leaders are
pivotal for enhancing strategic partnerships among Turkic states,
laying the foundation for a new historical stage in relations.
"As part of the visit, on August 23, the 'Treaty on Allied
Relations between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of
Uzbekistan' was signed, and two fraternal peoples, two independent,
powerful, sovereign, worthy states, became official allies. These
allied relations, in turn, give a serious impetus to the
development of cooperation in the field of media and the
implementation of fundamental projects. Our common values and
complementary goals have not only strengthened our relations but
also contributed to the revitalization of the media, which performs
an important function in providing our societies with information
and giving a dynamic spirit to the formation of closer and more
professional ties between the journalistic communities of our
countries," he added.
According to Ismayilov, the media are actively aligning their
efforts with strengthening strategic relations between the two
countries. They are committed to upholding ethical standards and
media principles, promoting the moral values of our nations while
safeguarding state interests. This includes protecting the domestic
information landscape from disinformation.
“In this context, the insights from esteemed experts, media
managers, and journalists participating in the joint media forum,
along with the perspectives shared during panel discussions, are
crucial for shaping our future initiatives and enhancing our
cooperation. Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan, with their geostrategic
positions, rich intellectual resources, and historical traditions,
possess significant potential to influence socio-political dynamics
and cultural development in the South Caucasus and Central Asia.
Being part of the Turkic world, with its deep historical roots and
bonds of brotherhood, has positively propelled the deepening of our
relations,” he added.
Ismayilov further highlighted that the Organization of Turkic
States has continually evolved and garnered trust since its
inception.
"The organization plays a vital role in fostering mutual trust,
political solidarity, economic collaboration, and the preservation
of cultural heritage within the Turkic world. Emphasis is placed on
developing bilateral ties, implementing joint projects, and
exchanging expertise between Azerbaijan and member states of the
Organization across various sectors, including media. Our recently
strengthened media relations with the fraternal Republic of
Uzbekistan serve as a prime example".
Before moving on to the work we are doing and long-term plans
within the framework of cooperation with the Republic of Uzbekistan
in the field of media, I would like to emphasize that reinforcing
our media relationships not only safeguards our moral values but is
also essential in the face of rapid technological advancements," he
said.
He emphasized that in a landscape increasingly dominated by
social networks, the media must adhere to their core principles
while adapting to technological progress and effectively addressing
contemporary challenges. This includes navigating the convergence
of platforms in the digital landscape.
"In this regard, we believe that establishing strong connections
between the journalistic communities of our countries and fostering
constructive dialogue will significantly enhance our collaborative
efforts.
I would like to draw your attention to the fact that we are
actively working to establish partnerships between organizations
responsible for media development and coordination in Azerbaijan
and Uzbekistan. This includes enhancing the functions of
communication departments within state institutions, facilitating
the exchange of experiences in media education and literacy, and
strengthening cooperation among media outlets," he stated.
Ismayilov highlighted that the signing of the "Memorandum of
Understanding" between Azerbaijan's Media Development Agency and
Uzbekistan's Agency for Information and Mass Communications during
the Uzbek-Azerbaijani business forum on June 20, 2022, in Tashkent
has greatly accelerated their joint initiatives.
"Following this, on August 22, 2023, during the state visit of
the President of Uzbekistan to Azerbaijan, we signed a 'Roadmap' to
develop cooperation in the media sector. As part of this 'Roadmap',
we organized a press tour to Azerbaijan in July, which included
officials from the Uzbek Agency for Information and Mass
Communications and various media representatives.
During this press tour, a meeting was held at Azerbaijan's Media
Development Agency, where we underscored the significance of mutual
experience sharing and the joint battle against disinformation. The
discussions from the Second Shusha Global Media Forum were also
reviewed, emphasizing the importance of nurturing long-term media
relations," he added.
Ismayilov emphasized the plans for larger-scale events to
further bilateral media cooperation under the 'Roadmap' in the near
future.
"I recall our insightful conversation at the Second Shusha
Global Media Forum in July, where we discussed 'Exposing False
Narratives: Fighting Disinformation.' The theme of 'In Search of
Truth in the Digital Age: Fighting Disinformation' for the
Uzbek-Azerbaijani Media Forum is particularly relevant today.
Technological advancements unfortunately introduce complexities
that can taint the information landscape across borders, making the
fight against disinformation a priority for both our nations.
Significant messages regarding this issue were shared at the
Second Shusha Global Media Forum. Over 150 international guests
from around 50 countries participated, engaging in extensive
discussions on understanding disinformation in today's world,
analyzing its detrimental effects, and exploring effective combat
strategies," he noted.
The Executive Director concluded by highlighting the importance
of the Uzbek-Azerbaijani media forum in emphasizing the global
nature of the fight against disinformation.
"We anticipate that this forum will be a pivotal event in
navigating the challenges we face. Additionally, this year's agenda
for Azerbaijani media is particularly packed, especially with the
upcoming COP29 session of the UN Framework Convention on Climate
Change scheduled for November in Azerbaijan.
We kindly request our Uzbek colleagues and respected media
representatives at the forum to provide comprehensive coverage of
the events and preparations for COP29, the fight against the
impacts of climate change at the national level, the sustainable
approach shown in the process of recovery and reconstruction in the
liberated territories, as well as in general about the initiatives
promoted by Azerbaijan in the name of a green world. We also ask
for media support at various levels," he concluded.
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