Partnership in digital age discussed at 2nd Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan Media Forum

A panel discussion entitled "Media Partnership in the Digital Age: Joint Initiatives Towards Information Security" has been held as part of the 2nd Azerbaijan-Uzbekistan Media Forum, Report informs.

The participants addressed key aspects of cooperation between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan in media and digital security, exchanged experiences, and outlined joint initiatives.

Rasim Bagirov, head of department at the Azerbaijan Media Development Agency, noted: "This forum continues the beneficial tradition of bilateral cooperation, implemented within the framework of the media development roadmap between our countries. Digital transformation and information security are priority areas today, especially given the active information flows and the risks of disinformation in the region."

Bagirov emphasized the importance of exchanging experiences with Uzbek colleagues, including on media literacy, media content virtualization, and cybersecurity. He highlighted joint projects such as Media Literacy Week, SmartMedia, Media Lab, and InnoMedia, as well as participation in international initiatives within the Organization of Turkic States and other platforms.

Acting chairman of the Union of Journalists of Uzbekistan, Kholmurod Salimov, proposed specific initiatives for further cooperation: "First, continue to develop interaction between state and non-state media organizations in Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan. Second, publish a bilingual book including the best materials and creative works of experienced journalists from both countries. Third, initiate updating international laws on information security and personal data protection."

Fazil Novruzov, head of the Office of the Audiovisual Council of Azerbaijan, also noted the particular importance of improving education, media literacy, and digital skills. "These tools are interconnected, and their successful implementation contributes to information security. Azerbaijan actively cooperates with foreign regulators and public organizations to improve media literacy and information protection," he said.

Abduaziz Abutalipov, director general of the National Media Community of Uzbekistan, emphasized: "Information is trust. No journalist or government can cope with threats alone. The key word is partnership. In practice, this means: joint fact-checking projects where journalists and engineers work together; unified international digital security standards that protect citizens' data and rights; the exchange of technologies and knowledge for rapid response to threats; and the creation of media and platform alliances that become a shield of trust for society."