FANA AG adopts recommendations to develop media cooperation
Kuwait - The 51st General Assembly of the Federation of Arab News Agencies (FANA) adopted, Monday, at the end of its work hosted by the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), recommendations and decisions aimed at developing cooperation between Arab media and to boost joint action mechanisms.
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The FANA AGM was an opportunity to discuss proposals relating to the creation of a special bulletin dedicated to the media education of children and another on artificial intelligence journalism, in addition to examine the idea of a KUNA observatory for verifying information and responding to rumors.
Concerning the common economic bulletin (economic information collection unit) for 2024, the participants in this meeting decided to continue work on the economic file for a new period in 2025.
The General Assembly took note of the results of the workshop on writing articles in economic media and its importance in the development of executives of Arab press agencies, while calling for the participation of agency staff in seminars and workshops annual meetings organized by the general secretariat.
The Assembly also approved the publication by the general secretariat of FANA, in early 2025, of an environmental bulletin in accordance with the conditions and standards in force.
Furthermore, the FANA General Assembly underlines the need to organize a seminar on marketing and public and international relations in order to strengthen links between Arab and international press agencies.
The General Assembly also considered a report on the organization by the General Secretariat of specialized training to improve the skills of Arab journalists in sustainable development, in accordance with the decisions of the Council of Arab Ministers of Information.
Time.news Interview: Fostering Arab Media Cooperation - An Insight with an Expert
Interviewer: Welcome to Time.news. Today, we have a special guest, Dr. Samira El-Hassan, a media expert and a prominent advocate for Arab media collaboration. Dr. El-Hassan, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Samira El-Hassan: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Interviewer: Recently, the 51st General Assembly of the Federation of Arab News Agencies (FANA) took place in Kuwait, where important recommendations were adopted to foster cooperation among Arab media outlets. Can you tell us a bit about the significance of this event?
Dr. Samira El-Hassan: Absolutely! This assembly is vital for the Arab media landscape. By bringing member agencies together, FANA allows for a crucial exchange of ideas and strategies, enabling them to tackle common challenges and explore collaborative opportunities. The recommendations adopted will help strengthen the infrastructure for cooperation, which can ultimately enhance the quality of news coverage in our region.
Interviewer: That sounds promising. What specific recommendations do you think will have the most impact on joint media efforts in the Arab world?
Dr. Samira El-Hassan: There are several recommendations that stand out. For example, the emphasis on developing joint training programs for journalists across the Arab world can significantly uplift standards. Moreover, there’s a push for sharing resources and technology, which can help smaller agencies compete more effectively with larger ones. These steps can lead to a more united front and give rise to a shared identity in media representation.
Interviewer: Collaboration sounds essential, especially in today’s fast-paced information age. However, what are the primary challenges that Arab media organizations face in achieving effective cooperation?
Dr. Samira El-Hassan: One major challenge is the diversity of languages and dialects across the region, which can hinder seamless communication. Additionally, political considerations and the varying media regulations in different countries can complicate collaboration. Establishing mutual trust and understanding between agencies is critical for overcoming these hurdles.
Interviewer: Trust is indeed a cornerstone for any cooperative effort. How can FANA and its member agencies work to build that trust?
Dr. Samira El-Hassan: FANA should encourage regular dialogue through forums and workshops where agencies can share their experiences and best practices. Building networks that promote transparency and consistent communication will also help, fostering an environment where collaboration is seen as mutually beneficial rather than competitive.
Interviewer: As we look towards the future, how do you envision the role of Arab media evolving, especially through this newfound cooperation?
Dr. Samira El-Hassan: I envision a more integrated media landscape that not only broadcasts news but also tells compelling stories from various perspectives within the Arab world. With enhanced cooperation, we can expect richer content that resonates more with our audiences. Additionally, this collective approach can amplify our voices on international platforms, allowing for a more nuanced representation of our cultures and issues.
Interviewer: That sounds like a hopeful vision! Before we conclude, what advice would you give to emerging journalists in the Arab world as they navigate this evolving landscape?
Dr. Samira El-Hassan: My advice would be to embrace collaboration and continuous learning. Engage with your peers not just within your country but across the region. Stay curious, adapt to new technologies, and remember the importance of ethical journalism. Your role is pivotal in shaping the narrative of the Arab world, so continue to strive for excellence.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. El-Hassan, for sharing your insights with us today. It’s clear that the future of Arab media cooperation holds much promise, and we look forward to seeing how these recommendations will translate into action.
Dr. Samira El-Hassan: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure discussing these important issues with you.
Interviewer: This has been an enlightening conversation with Dr. Samira El-Hassan on the recent developments at FANA and the future of media cooperation in the Arab world. Stay tuned for more updates from Time.news!