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 at the opening of the Uzbek-Azerbaijani Media Forum "In Search of Truth in the Digital Age: Combating Disinformation" in Uzbekistan’s Tashkent, Trend reports.
"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.