The ceremony, during which MAP was represented by its Director General, Fouad Arif, in the presence of the Moroccan ambassador in Madrid, Karima Benyaich, was marked by the participation of several senior Spanish officials, including the Ministers of Youth and Childhood, Sira Rego, and Equality, Ana Redondo, as well as several ambassadors accredited to Spain.
Among the audience were also eminent personalities from the world of arts and culture, economics, politics and the media.
An exhibition of photographs retracing the history and achievements of the Spanish press agency, as well as the main events that have marked recent world history, was organized on this occasion.
A vibrant tribute was also paid to the victims of the recent floods which affected the east and south of Spain.
Speaking during this celebration, the president of EFE, Miguel Ángel Oliver, highlighted the “strategic” nature of this news agency, highlighting in particular its expertise in the fight against disinformation thanks to its “EFE Verifica” service. “.
MAP and EFE are linked by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed on February 2, 2024 in Rabat, relating to the strengthening of their cooperation mainly in the area of content sharing and execution of specific projects.
As part of this partnership, training sessions were organized last October in Rabat and Madrid for the benefit of a group of MAP sports journalists.
How does fact-checking by agencies like EFE Verifica contribute to combating disinformation in digital media?
Time.news Interview: An Insight into the Cooperation between MAP and EFE – Strengthening Journalism in a Digital Age
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Today, we have the privilege of speaking with [Expert’s Name], a prominent figure in journalism and media relations. As the recent ceremony highlighted the collaboration between the Moroccan Press Agency (MAP) and the Spanish news agency EFE, we aim to delve into the implications of this partnership and its significance in combating disinformation. Thank you for joining us.
Expert: Thank you for having me; it’s a pleasure to discuss such an important development in journalism.
Interviewer: The ceremony featured noteworthy participants, including the Moroccan ambassador to Spain, Karima Benyaich, and various senior Spanish officials. Why do you think the presence of high-level officials and cultural figures matters at such events?
Expert: Their presence underscores the governmental and cultural importance of the partnership between MAP and EFE. It reflects a unity that transcends geographical boundaries and emphasizes collaborative efforts in media and information dissemination. Moreover, having such eminent personalities present elevates the significance of the occasion, reinforcing the values of transparency and mutual respect in the journalism community.
Interviewer: During the event, a tribute was paid to the victims of recent floods in Spain. What does this signify about the role of news agencies in times of crisis?
Expert: It highlights the responsibility of news agencies to not only report news but also to engage with the community and provide support during crises. Acknowledging tragedies shows empathy and strengthens the bond between the media and the public. It’s a reminder that journalism serves a human purpose, often acting as a bridge between information and community action.
Interviewer: Miguel Ángel Oliver, the president of EFE, mentioned the strategic nature of the agency, particularly its “EFE Verifica” service. How crucial is the role of fact-checking in today’s media landscape?
Expert: Fact-checking is essential in our current media environment, which is often rife with misinformation. Services like “EFE Verifica” are critical for maintaining journalistic integrity and trust. In an age where news spreads quickly across social media, a strong commitment to verifying facts can help combat disinformation and ensure that audiences receive accurate and reliable information.
Interviewer: The recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between MAP and EFE is aimed at enhancing cooperation. What does this mean for content sharing and joint projects moving forward?
Expert: The MoU signifies a formal commitment to collaboration that benefits not only both agencies but also their audiences. It fosters a framework for content sharing that encourages cross-cultural dialogue and enriches the narrative quality produced by both agencies. Joint projects can lead to innovative journalism practices, ultimately enhancing the overall media landscape.
Interviewer: Training sessions for MAP sports journalists were recently held in Rabat and Madrid. What kind of impact do you think these training initiatives will have on the quality of journalism?
Expert: Training programs are instrumental in elevating the capabilities of journalists. By providing professional development opportunities, MAP can boost the skills of its journalists in areas such as digital reporting, ethics in journalism, and multimedia storytelling. This not only improves the individual journalists’ skills but also uplifts the overall standard of reporting within the region, promoting higher-quality journalism that resonates on a global scale.
Interviewer: what practical advice would you give to aspiring journalists looking to navigate the complex world of media today?
Expert: Aspiring journalists should prioritize continuous learning and adaptability. Embrace digital tools and platforms for reporting, consider specializing in fact-checking or investigative journalism, and foster a strong ethical foundation. Engaging with international peers through collaborations or forums can also provide valuable insights into diverse journalistic practices. Ultimately, being committed to the values of truth and service will always stand out in this profession.
Interviewer: Thank you, [Expert’s Name], for sharing such valuable insights today. The partnership between MAP and EFE truly reflects the evolving landscape of journalism, and your expertise has shed light on its implications for the media industry.
Expert: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial we continue these dialogues to enhance and protect the integrity of journalism worldwide.