Third Shusha Global Media Forum Commences In Azerbaijan With Emirates News Agency Participation

The 3rd Shusha Global Media Forum commenced in Shusha, Azerbaijan, featuring the Emirates News Agency (WAM) and other international media groups. The event, themed "Digital Pathways: Strengthening Information and Media Resilience in the Age of AI," aims to foster dialogue among global media professionals. This gathering marks the 150th anniversary of Azerbaijani media.

Hikmet Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan and Head of Foreign Policy Affairs Department, emphasised Shusha's cultural importance. He described it as a hub of national memory and inspiration, having nurtured many publishers, writers, and intellectuals who enriched Azerbaijan's cultural and scientific legacy. Hajiyev stated that inviting global media representatives encourages sharing innovative ideas on media's future and intelligent technologies.

Following the opening ceremony, a panel discussion titled "Innovative Approaches: Media Literacy in the Digital Age" took place. Participants explored how digital advancements are reshaping media literacy. The forum's agenda also included visits to Aghdam district and Lachin city, providing attendees with broader insights into Azerbaijan's cultural landscape.

A closed session hosted by Azerbaijan State News Agency (AZERTAC) focused on its history and future. Titled "AZERTAC at 105: The Past, Present, and Future," this session gathered various news agencies to discuss artificial intelligence integration in news operations. This reflects the growing role of AI in transforming how news is produced and consumed globally.

The forum will run until 21st July with about 140 participants from 52 countries. Attendees include representatives from over 30 news agencies, seven international organisations, around 80 media institutions, experts, officials, and members of the Azerbaijani media sector. This diverse participation underscores the forum's significance as a platform for exchanging ideas on media resilience amid technological changes.

The event not only celebrates Azerbaijani media’s rich history but also looks forward to future innovations in information dissemination. By bringing together diverse voices from across the globe, it aims to strengthen collaborative efforts in navigating digital challenges facing today's media landscape.

With inputs from WAM