Ashraf AboArafe
As part of the media component of the executive programme of the Arab-Chinese Cooperation Forum, the sixth session focusing on radio and television cooperation is set to take place in collaboration between the General Secretariat (Media and Communication Sector) and the Chinese National Radio and Television Administration. Information ministers and audio-visual media officials from Arab countries and China will participate during the period from 9 to 11 December in Hangzhou.
Ambassador Ahmed Rashid Khattabi, Assistant Secretary-General and head of the Media and Communication Sector, leading the General Secretariat delegation, highlighted that organising the forum is a continuation of efforts to implement previous recommendations, enhance attained successes, and foresee future work programmes. He stressed that the sustained sessions of the forum underscore its seriousness and effectiveness, aligning with other mechanisms of the Arab-Chinese Forum—a comprehensive and multidimensional strategic framework for Arab-Chinese relations established in 2004.
Ambassador Khattabi confirmed that the sixth session of the forum will centre around the theme: “Strengthening Arab-Chinese friendship and mutually benefiting from the development of the audiovisual industry.” The agenda will cover three primary aspects focused on improving communication among various media institutions in Arab countries and China, while also exploring new opportunities for collaboration.
This partnership is characterised by a spirit of vitality and order, guided by an ambitious vision that aims to build bridges of understanding and closeness. It strives to reinforce the depth, diversity, and strength of the human, civilisational, and cultural ties between China and the Arab world.
He emphasised that this partnership signifies the renewed commitment of both sides through a media discourse geared towards advancing mutual benefits. It contributes to disseminating a culture of peace and constructing a more equitable world where the values of justice and solidarity prevail. It also aligns with efforts to address collective development amid accelerating geopolitical, economic, and climatic transformations.
Ambassador Khattabi announced that the forum’s activities will conclude with the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the General Secretariat and the National Radio and Television Administration. The memorandum aims to enhance professional ties among media institutions, focusing on training and qualification, exchanging experiences, supporting collaborative television production, leveraging opportunities for cooperation in audio-visual technologies, and sharing insights on navigating the evolving global media landscape. This includes the responsible use of artificial intelligence technologies and addressing the significant digital divide between Northern and Southern countries.
