Post by : Maya Rahman

The 55th session of the Council of Arab Information Ministers took place yesterday at the Arab League headquarters in Cairo, under the chairmanship of Syrian Minister of Information, Hamza Al-Mustafa, succeeding Bahraini Minister Ramzan bin Abdullah Al-Noaimi. The gathering was also attended by Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit.

Representing Saudi Arabia, currently chairing the Executive Office of the Council, was Undersecretary of the Ministry of Media for International Media Relations, Khalid Al-Ghamdi. The delegation was led by Ambassador Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Matar, the Kingdom’s Permanent Representative to the Arab League.

The meeting emphasized several critical issues impacting the Arab media landscape, with the Palestinian issue taking precedence. Discussions also included the Arab Media Code of Ethics, updates on the Arab media action plan internationally, and the role of media in combating terrorism, all aimed at reinforcing the media's duty to promote accurate information and public awareness.

Further discussions touched on the Arab media roadmap for sustainable development 2030, strategies for enhancing media and information literacy, an environmental media plan, and the integration of artificial intelligence into Arab media. Ministers also reviewed the Arab-Chinese media cooperation and the “Arab Media Capital” initiative, which aspires to bolster the regional media landscape and enhance collaboration across Arab countries.

Anticipated outcomes include the approval of a new executive office composition for the next two years and the adoption of various draft resolutions aimed at improving media policy coordination among Arab nations.

Saudi Arabia’s leadership role within the council underscores its commitment to elevating Arab media and ensuring it contributes positively to society. By exploring ethics, innovation, and regional collaboration, the Kingdom seeks to foster responsible media practices that aid in development and public outreach.

The significance of technology in media was further underscored in discussions about artificial intelligence and digital tools, highlighting the importance of keeping Arab media aligned with global standards while upholding cultural and ethical norms. It was noted that embracing new technologies could enhance the quality, reach, and credibility of media.

This council’s collective efforts aim to tackle challenges such as misinformation, ongoing regional conflicts, and to promote sustainable development through media channels. The session reiterated the need for unified policies, training initiatives, and cooperation across borders, aiming to ensure Arab media remains influential, responsible, and innovative.

The 55th session of the Council of Arab Information Ministers represents a pivotal moment in shaping the future of Arab media. With a focus on ethics, technological advancement, and regional cooperation, the council endeavors to enhance the media’s societal role and support sustainable development across the Arab world.

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