The 4th Global Media Forum held in Shusha once again demonstrated that information security, media cooperation, and international communication have become key priorities on the global agenda. Dedicated to the theme "The Role of Media in Promoting Peace: Restoring Truth and Building Trust," the forum brought together nearly 160 media executives, journalists, experts, government officials, and representatives of international organizations from 53 countries.
Nigar Mammadova, Member of the Parliament of Azerbaijan of the Republic of Azerbaijan, provides her analysis for EDnews.
During the two-day event, participants discussed the major challenges facing today's media landscape, including combating disinformation, digital transformation, the impact of artificial intelligence on journalism, and the future of international media cooperation. The forum served as an important platform for professional dialogue and for strengthening media relations among countries.
One of the forum's key events was President Ilham Aliyev's meeting with representatives of foreign media. The President answered questions regarding Azerbaijan's foreign policy, regional security, energy strategy, transport corridors, and global geopolitical developments, highlighting the country's growing role on the international stage.
President Aliyev emphasized that Azerbaijan's independent foreign policy, economic development, and strategic initiatives have reinforced the country's position as an important political and economic partner across Eurasia. In particular, the development of the East-West and North-South international transport corridors continues to strengthen Azerbaijan's role as one of the region's leading logistics and transit hubs.
Energy security was another major topic discussed during the forum. It was noted that Azerbaijan currently exports natural gas to 16 countries and has established itself as a reliable contributor to Europe's energy security. As Europe continues to diversify its energy supplies, Azerbaijan's strategic importance is becoming even more significant.
Relations with the European Union were also addressed during the meeting. President Aliyev stated that Azerbaijan remains committed to developing cooperation with its international partners on the basis of mutual respect, equality, and respect for national interests.
Holding the forum in Shusha gave the event additional symbolic significance. Thanks to extensive reconstruction and restoration projects carried out in recent years, the city has become a prestigious venue for major international events. Foreign journalists and media executives had the opportunity to witness the reconstruction efforts firsthand and share their observations with global audiences. In this regard, the forum has become an important instrument of Azerbaijan's information diplomacy.
Media cooperation among D-8 member states also received considerable attention during the event. President Ilham Aliyev's initiative to establish a D-8 Media Excellence Center in Azerbaijan was regarded as a promising step toward strengthening professional training, promoting the application of artificial intelligence in media, enhancing cooperation in combating disinformation, and expanding the exchange of expertise among member countries.
The 4th Shusha Global Media Forum once again demonstrated the growing importance of expanding international media cooperation, promoting reliable information, and encouraging professional dialogue in response to today's global challenges. At the same time, the forum highlighted Azerbaijan's capacity to host major international events and further reinforced Shusha's emergence as an important global platform for international media dialogue.
